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Cysteamine Ophthalmic Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 10, 2025.

Applies to cysteamine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Precautions

Your eye doctor will check your or your child's eyes at regular visits to make sure it is working properly and is not causing unwanted effects.

If your or your child's symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

If you hurt your eye, develop an eye infection, or need to have eye surgery, talk with your doctor right away. You or your child may need to change your medicine or stop using it.

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, cysteamine ophthalmic may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking cysteamine ophthalmic:

More common side effects

  • blurred vision
  • decrease or change in vision
  • eye pain, redness, itching, irritation, or swelling
  • headache
  • sensitivity of the eyes to light

Other side effects

Some side effects of cysteamine ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • watering of the eyes

For healthcare professionals

Applies to cysteamine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

General adverse events

The most frequently reported adverse reactions occurring in 10% or more of patients were visual sensitivity to light, eye redness, eye pain/irritation, headache, and visual field defects.[Ref]

See also:

References

1. (2012) "Product Information. Cystaran (cysteamine ophthalmic)." Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals

Further information

Cysteamine ophthalmic side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.