Generic name: cyclosporine ophthalmic [ SYE-kloe-SPOR-een-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand names: Cequa, Restasis, Restasis MultiDose
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-inflammatory agents
What is Restasis MultiDose?
Restasis MultiDose is used to treat chronic dry eye that may be caused by inflammation.
Restasis MultiDose may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Restasis MultiDose if you are allergic to cyclosporine.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
How should I use Restasis MultiDose?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Use the medicine about every 12 hours. Remove contact lenses first.
Wash your hands before using eye medication.
To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.
Turn the Restasis bottle upside down a few times to gently mix the medicine before each use.
Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
Wait at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses or using artificial tears.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Cequa eye drops should be clear and colorless. Restasis eye drops should appear white in color.
Each single-use bottle is for one use only (in both eyes). Throw the bottle away after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.
Store at room temperature. Store Cequa single-use vials in their original foil pouch.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of Restasis MultiDose is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
What should I avoid while using cyclosporine ophthalmic?
It may be best not to wear contact lenses if you have dry eyes. Talk with your doctor about your own risk.
Restasis MultiDose side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Restasis MultiDose may cause serious side effects. Stop using Restasis MultiDose and call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe eye pain, burning, or stinging after putting in the drops;
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swollen eyelids; or
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signs of eye infection--swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage.
Common side effects of Restasis MultiDose may include:
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mild eye pain, redness, or other irritation;
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blurred vision; or
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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.
What other drugs will affect Restasis MultiDose?
Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Popular FAQ
Yes, in the U.S. there is a generic option for Restasis eye drops known as cyclosporine ophthalmic eye drops. The generic was first approved in February 2022. It comes as a 0.05% strength in a package that contains 30 or 60 single-dose vials. The generic is just as safe and effective as the brand name. Continue reading
Restasis (cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion), from Allergan, was formerly only available as a brand name prescription product. Cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion, made by Mylan, is now available as a more affordable generic option in the U.S. Continue reading
Both Cequa and Restasis are eye drops that contain cyclosporine. They are used to increase tear production in patients with dry eye disease (medically called keratoconjunctivitis sicca). However, Cequa incorporates a novel nanomicellar technology of cyclosporine A to allow delivery of high concentrations of the medication into the eye. Restasis is not manufactured using nanomicellar technology. Nanomicellar technology can help deliver poorly water-soluble drugs into the eye and protect the drug molecule. Continue reading
No, Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic) eye drops require a prescription from your doctor, you cannot buy them over the counter (OTC). An optometrist or ophthalmologist are eye doctor specialists that usually prescribe this medicine. This drug is approved to treat dry eye disease. Continue reading
More FAQ
- How many times can you use a vial of Restasis?
- Is Restasis safe for long-term use?
- How long does it take for Restasis to work?
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Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
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