Indications
- Restasis is indicated to increase tear production in patients whose tear production is presumed to be suppressed due to ocular inflammation associated with keratoconjunctivitis sicca, commonly known as dry eye disease.
- It is prescribed to help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes, such as burning, stinging, itching, and the sensation of a foreign body in the eye.
Dosage and administration
- The recommended dosage of Restasis is one drop in each eye twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart.
- Restasis should be administered using the provided single-use vials, with a new vial for each dose.
- Wash your hands before administering Restasis to avoid contamination.
- Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and instill one drop of Restasis into the pocket.
- Close your eyes gently for a few moments to allow the medication to spread evenly over the eye surface.
- Avoid touching the tip of the vial to the eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
- If you wear contact lenses, remove them before instilling Restasis and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
- Use Restasis exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, and do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency of administration.
Side effects
- Common side effects of Restasis may include burning or stinging sensation in the eyes upon instillation.
- Some individuals may experience eye redness, blurred vision, or discharge while using Restasis.
- Restasis may cause eye discomfort, itching, or tearing as potential side effects.
- In rare cases, Restasis may lead to eye pain, sensitivity to light, or changes in taste sensation.
- Long-term use of Restasis may increase the risk of eye infections or allergic reactions in some individuals.
- If you experience severe or persistent side effects while using Restasis, such as eye pain, swelling, or vision changes, consult your healthcare provider promptly.
Precautions
- Inform your healthcare provider about any history of eye conditions, including eye infections, prior to using Restasis.
- Use caution when administering Restasis if you have a history of allergic reactions to cyclosporine or any other ingredients in the medication.
- Avoid touching the tip of the Restasis container to the eye or any other surface to prevent contamination and potential eye infections.
- If you experience eye pain, redness, or changes in vision while using Restasis, consult your healthcare provider promptly.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using Restasis, as the safety of the medication during pregnancy and lactation has not been established.
- Keep Restasis out of reach of children and pets and store it at room temperature away from moisture and heat sources.