Restasis

Generic name: Cyclosporine Ophthalmic
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-inflammatory agents

Usage of Restasis

Restasis eye drops contain cyclosporine which is an immunosuppressant. Cyclosporine can increase tear production that has been reduced by inflammation in the eye(s).

Restasis eye drops are used to treat chronic dry eye that may be caused by inflammation.

Restasis ophthalmic emulsion may also be used for treating eye disease not listed in this medication guide.

Restasis side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Restasis: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

eye pain; or

eye swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage (may be signs of infection).

Common Restasis side effects may include:

mild burning or stinging in the eyes;

mild redness or itching;

blurred vision; or

feeling like something is in your eye.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Restasis

You should not use Restasis if you are allergic to cyclosporine.

Restasis is likely safe in pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether Restasis passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby, although it is likely safe. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

This medicine is not approved for use by anyone younger than 16 years old.

Relate drugs

How to use Restasis

1 drop 2 times a day in each eye approximately 12 hours apart

Restasis can be used concomitantly with artificial tears, allowing a 15 minute interval between products.

Warnings

Do not touch the Restasis dropper on to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated (dirty), it could cause an infection in the eye(s).

Do not use this medicine while wearing contact lenses. Contact lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes following the administration of Restasis eye drops, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What other drugs will affect Restasis

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on cyclosporine used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

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