Why is this medication prescribed?

Restasis (generic name: cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) is a prescription medication used to treat chronic dry eye disease. Chronic dry eye is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, irritation, and discomfort.

Cyclosporine, the active ingredient in Restasis, works by reducing inflammation in the eyes and increasing the production of natural tears. It helps to improve the quality and quantity of tears, relieving the symptoms of chronic dry eye.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines on how Restasis should be used:

• Dosage: The usual recommended dosage is one drop in each affected eye twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart.
• Administration: Wash your hands before using Restasis. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and instill one drop into the affected eye(s). Close your eyes gently and blink several times to spread the medication evenly.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Restasis and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Avoid Contamination: Be careful not to touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including your eyes, to prevent contamination. Do not use the medication if the liquid has changed color or has particles in it.
• Consistency: Use Restasis regularly and consistently, as directed by your doctor. It may take several weeks before you notice an improvement in your symptoms.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Follow-up: Attend follow-up appointments with your eye care professional to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or side effects.

It’s important to note that the use of Restasis should be under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional, and the information provided here is a general guideline. Always follow the specific instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about using Restasis, consult your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Restasis is primarily prescribed for the treatment of chronic dry eye disease, and its use for other conditions should be discussed with and prescribed by a healthcare professional. As of last update, there might be new developments or additional uses for Restasis, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Restasis. Here are some general considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to cyclosporine or any other ingredients in Restasis.
• Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of eye infections or any other eye conditions. Also, disclose any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Restasis with your healthcare provider.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Restasis. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them to avoid potential interactions.
• Eye Surgery: If you have had recent eye surgery or if you are planning to have eye surgery, inform your eye doctor about your use of Restasis.
• Avoid Contamination: As mentioned earlier, be careful not to touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including your eyes, to prevent contamination.
• Monitoring: Your eye care professional may want to monitor your progress periodically to assess the effectiveness of Restasis and to check for any potential side effects.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, which may include burning/stinging in the eyes, discharge, redness, itching, or changes in vision. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Children: The safety and efficacy of Restasis in children under 16 years of age have not been established, so it is generally not recommended for use in this age group without specific guidance from a healthcare provider.

Always use Restasis as prescribed by your healthcare provider, and do not alter the dosage or frequency without their approval. If you have any questions or concerns about Restasis, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your medical history and condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Restasis. However, it’s essential to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle, including a well-balanced diet, to support your general health, including eye health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Restasis, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

If you have concerns about missed doses or if you frequently forget to take your medication, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on the best course of action and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Like any medication, Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) may cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may experience side effects that are not listed. If you are prescribed Restasis, your healthcare provider will have considered the potential benefits of the medication against the risk of side effects. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Common side effects of Restasis may include:

• Burning or stinging: Some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes after using Restasis. This is typically mild and temporary.
• Redness: Redness of the eyes can occur, but it is usually temporary.
• Watery eyes: Paradoxically, you may experience increased tearing initially. This is a normal response as the eyes adjust to the medication.
• Blurred vision: Some people may experience blurred vision after using Restasis. It’s recommended to wait until your vision clears before engaging in activities that require clear vision, such as driving.
• Itching or discharge: Itching or discharge from the eyes can occur as a side effect.
• Foreign body sensation: Some users may feel as though there is a foreign body or something in the eye.
• Eyelid discomfort: Restasis may cause discomfort or irritation in the eyelids.
• Headache: While less common, headaches have been reported as a side effect of Restasis.

It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects, especially if they are persistent or severe. Additionally, serious side effects are rare but can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as severe itching, rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual responses to medications can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any concerns or adverse effects promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Restasis:

• Storage:
  • Store Restasis at room temperature between 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C).
  • Do not freeze the medication.
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
  • Protect the medication from light.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired medication properly.
  • Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience any severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include severe burning or stinging in the eyes.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Use Restasis exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or frequency without consulting your doctor.
• Regular Follow-ups: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your eye care professional to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Restasis. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Keep Appointments: Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider, even if you think your condition has improved. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment plan based on your response to Restasis.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including eye specialists and surgeons, about your use of Restasis.
• Potential Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Report Side Effects: Report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Restasis with your healthcare provider.
• Children: The safety and efficacy of Restasis in children under 16 years of age have not been established, so use in this age group should be based on the healthcare provider’s recommendation.
• Changes in Vision: If you experience changes in vision or any other concerning eye symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have specific questions about the storage, disposal, or usage of Restasis. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health situation.