Is there a generic for Restasis eye drops?
The generic option for Restasis eye drops known as cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion. The generic contains the same active ingredient as the brand name product. It comes as a 0.05% strength in a package that contains 30 or 60 single-dose vials.
The generic version of Restasis, cyclosporine ophthalmic 0.05%, costs around $127 for a supply of 30 single-use vials and $245 for 60 single-use vials.
Brand name Restasis costs around $349 for a supply of 30 single-use vials and $689 for 60 single-use vials, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Restasis MultiDose also comes in a 5.5 mL multi-dose bottle for $689, but there is no generic option for the bottle.
These prices are for cash paying customers only using a drug discount card and are not valid with insurance. Prices can vary between pharmacies.
You can sign up for a brand name Restasis Savings Card through the My Tears, My Rewards program from Allergan if you prefer. If you qualify, you may be able to pay as little as $0 for a 90-day supply of Restasis. You can sign up online or call 1-844-4MY-TEARS (1-844-469-8327).
Other brands for cyclosporine ophthalmic eye drops for dry eye include Cequa, Verkazia and Vevye, but these differ slightly in strength and there are no generics available.
Related: Restasis Prices, Coupons and Patient Assistance Programs
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What is Restasis used for?
Restasis is used to treat chronic dry eye (also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca) that may be caused by inflammation. It helps you to make more of your own tears. It is classified as a calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppressant.
Dry eye disease occurs when the tear glands fail to keep the eye’s surface properly lubricated. Ongoing dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva can lead to a thickened cornea and reduced vision.
The most common side effect with Restasis is a temporary burning sensation occurring about 17% of patients in studies. Other side effects include eye redness, eye discharge, watery eyes, eye pain, foreign body sensation, itching, stinging, and blurred vision.
This is not all the information you need to know about Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
- Restasis prescribing information. Allergan. 7/2017. Irvine, CA. Accessed May 22, 2022 at https://media.allergan.com/actavis/actavis/media/allergan-pdf-documents/product-prescribing/Combined-Restasis-and-MultiDose-PI_8-3-17.pdf
- Price guide. Cyclosporine ophthalmic drops. Drugs.com. Accessed May 22, 2022 at https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/cyclosporine-ophthalmic
- Ames P, Galor A. Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsions for the treatment of dry eye: a review of the clinical evidence. Clin Investig (Lond). 2015;5(3):267-285. doi: 10.4155/cli.14.135.
- Viatris is First to Receive FDA Approval of Generic Restasis (Cyclosporine Ophthalmic Emulsion 0.05%) to Treat Dry Eye Disease. Press release. Feb 3, 2022. Viatris. Accessed May 23, 2022 at https://newsroom.viatris.com/2022-02-03-Viatris-is-First-to-Receive-FDA-Approval-of-Generic-Restasis-R-Cyclosporine-Ophthalmic-Emulsion-0-05-to-Treat-Dry-Eye-Disease
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Drug information
- Restasis Information for Consumers
- Restasis prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Restasis (detailed)
Related support groups
- Restasis (31 questions, 44 members)
- Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (20 questions, 14 members)