What is Cyclosporine?
Cyclosporine eye drops help treat chronic dry eyes. It decreases inflammation to increase tear production, helping to lubricate your eyes naturally.
Your doctor will initially recommend at-home treatments for dry eyes, such as warm compresses, using a humidifier, or taking breaks from contact lenses. But if dryness persists, eye drops might then be recommended.
How does Cyclosporine work?
Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant, meaning it reduces immune system activity. When used in the eyes, it decreases the inflammation that interferes with tear production. By reducing inflammation, it helps increase natural tear production, resulting in hydrated eyes.1
Does Cyclosporine cause side effects?
You might get side effects when using Cyclosporine, but not everyone will get them. Potential side effects include:
- Eye pain
- Eye irritation
- Itchy eyes
- Watery eyes
- Eye redness
For those that do get them, these side effects tend to be mild and manageable. You may also experience some mild stinging or irritation when you start using Cyclosporine, but this should subside as you continue to use it. If your side effects become hard to manage, or you get severe, intense eye pain, stop using Cyclosporine and contact your doctor.
How does Restasis compare with Cyclosporine?
Restasis is the branded version of Cyclosporine. Both treatments contain the same active ingredient in the same concentration. The main differences are the packaging, manufacturing company, and price. Branded medications like Restasis are usually more expensive than generic ones.
What doses of Cyclosporine are there?
Cyclosporine comes in a single dose of 0.05%. It’s applied to your eyes twice a day, every 12 hours. Your doctor will give you more information on how long you need to use it for.
Treated trusted source:
- Ames, P., & Galor, A. (2015). Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsions for the treatment of dry eye: A review of the clinical evidence. Clinical Investigation, 5(3), 267.
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