Restasis (Ophthalmic cyclosporine) is used to increase tear production in people with dry eye disease. Cyclosporine is in a class of medications called immunomodulators. It works by decreasing swelling in the eye to allow for tear production. Cyclosporine Ophthalmic (Generic) and its preservative-free option is also available for purchase.  

Ophthalmic cyclosporine comes as a solution (liquid) and as an emulsion (a combination of two unmixable liquids) to instill in the eye. It is usually instilled in each eye twice a day, about 12 hours apart. Instill cyclosporine eye drops at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use cyclosporine eyedrops exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of them or use them more often than prescribed by your doctor. Cyclosporine eye drops are for use only in the eye(s). Do not swallow or apply cyclosporine eyedrops to the skin. Cyclosporine eye drops come in single-use vials (small bottles to be used for one dose) and in a multi-dose bottle (a bottle that can be used more than once). If you are using the single-use vials, the liquid from a vial should be used immediately after opening for one or both eyes. Be careful not to let the dropper tip touch your eye, fingers, face, or any surface. If the tip does touch another surface, bacteria may get into the eye drops.

To instill the eye drops, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• When using the multi-dose bottle for the first time, follow the instructions in the package to prepare the container for use.
• When using the emulsion, turn over the vial or bottle a few times until the liquid inside looks white and not see-through.
• Open the vial or remove the cap from the multi-use bottle.
• Avoid touching the dropper tip against your eye or anything else; eye drops and droppers must be kept clean.
• While tilting your head back, pull down the lower lid of your eye with your index finger to form a pocket.
• Hold the dropper (tip down) with the other hand, as close to the eye as possible without touching it.
• Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your face.
• While looking up, gently squeeze the dropper so that a single drop falls into the pocket made by the lower eyelid. Remove your index finger from the lower eyelid.
• Close your eye for 2 to 3 minutes and tip your head down as though looking at the floor. Try not to blink or squeeze your eyelids.
• Place a finger on the tear duct and apply gentle pressure.
• Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a tissue.
• Discard the vial out of the reach of children even if it is not empty. Replace the cap on the multi-use bottle.
• Wash your hands to remove any medication.

Before using cyclosporine eye drops,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune), any other medications, or any of the ingredients in cyclosporine eye drops. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention other eye drops for dry eye disease.
• if you are using artificial tears or lubricant eye drops, instill them at least 15 minutes before or after you instill cyclosporine eye drops.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had medical conditions.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using cyclosporine eye drops, call your doctor.
• you should know that cyclosporine eye drops should not be instilled while wearing contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before instilling cyclosporine eye drops and put them back in 15 minutes later. Talk to your doctor about wearing contact lenses if you have dry eye disease.

Cyclosporine eye drops may cause side effects including:

• burning, itching, stinging, redness, or pain of the eyes
• eyelid swelling
• eye discharge
• blurred vision or other vision changes
• feeling that something is in the eye
• headache

Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away. 

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment:

• signs of an allergic reaction including hives; itching; face, throat, eyes, and tongue swelling; shortness of breath

Cyclosporine eye drops may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.

Q: Why is Restasis prescribed?

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

Q: Does Restasis have a generic alternative?

A: Yes, Cyclosporine Ophthalmic (Generic) is available for purchase at a lower price than the brand.

Q: How long until I see the effects of Restasis?

A: It may take several weeks for your Restasis treatment to produce a therapeutic effect, and it may even take up to 6 months for you to feel the maximum benefit.

Q: Are there any known drugs that interact with Restasis?

A: 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 the medicines you use.

Q: What if I miss a dose of Restasis?

A: Instill the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not instill a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Q: How should I store this medication?

A: Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).