How effective is Restasis for dry eyes?
Dry eye syndrome is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Lubricants and steroids have been used to treat dry eyes, but cyclosporine—the generic name for Restasis—has become an increasingly useful option, and it has been shown in many studies to be both safe and effective.
In one study, most study participants had significant improvement in symptoms. In the largest study of more than 350 patients, 72% of participants were satisfied with the results after taking 0.05% cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion for dry eye syndrome.
How does Restasis work?
Restasis works by decreasing swelling in the eye and increasing your eye’s ability to produce tears.
- The medication comes as an eye drop in a single-use vial and should be used twice a day timed about 12 hours apart.
- The drops should only be used in the eyes, never swallowed or applied to the skin.
- Do not let the dropper tip come into contact with your eyes, fingers, face or any other surface—doing so may allow bacteria the opportunity to get into the eye drops.
- If you wear contact lenses, you should take them out before using Restasis.
What side effects may occur?
As with any drug, Restasis can cause side effects.
- The most common side effect is a temporary burning sensation.
Other side effects can include:
- Eye redness
- Discharge
- Watery eyes
- Eye pain
- Itching
- Stinging
- Blurred vision
Restasis should be stored at room temperature. You should avoid storing it in the bathroom or other areas of your home with high amounts of humidity. Make sure to keep it tightly closed in the container it comes in, and keep it away from children.
References
- Schultz C. Safety and Efficacy of Cyclosporine in the Treatment of Chronic Dry Eye. Ophthalmology and Eye Disease. 2014; 6: 37–42. Published online 2014 Jun 24. https://dx.doi.org/10.4137%2FOED.S16067.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Highlights of Prescribing Information. November 2012. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/050790s020lbl.pdf. [Accessed July 19, 2021].
- Allergan. Restasis helps patients make more of their own tears. Available at: https://www.allergantechalliance.com/Assets/Restasis/RESTASIS-Patient-Counseling-Aid.pdf. [Accessed July 19, 2021].
- U.S. National Library of Medicine MedlinePlus. Cyclosporine Ophthalmic. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604009.html. [Accessed July 19, 2021].
Read next
What are the best eye drops for dry eyes? A pharmacist explains.
Dry eyes are a common condition that can cause symptoms like stinging, burning, itching, redness, and a gritty sensation. These symptoms occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. Choosing the right eye drops depends on how severe your symptoms are, the underlying cause of your dry eye, and your individual needs.
Continue reading
Is there a generic for Restasis eye drops?
The generic option for Restasis eye drops known as cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion. The generic product 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. Continue reading
Can dry eyes cause blurry vision? Which medications help?
Yes, dry eyes can cause blurry or fluctuating vision. This occurs because dry eye syndrome disrupts the tear film that coats the eye’s surface, leading to uneven light refraction and irregularities on the corneal surface. Meibomian gland dysfunction, which affects the oily layer of the tear film, is a major contributor to this problem.
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Drug information
- Restasis Information for Consumers
- Restasis prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Restasis (detailed)
- Restasis user reviews (224)
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