Restasis

Restasis is an immunosuppressive agent. Cyclosporine may reduce inflammation in the eye(s). Restasis is used to treat chronic dry eye that may be caused by inflammation. Restasis may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. Do not touch the Restasis dropper on to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye(s). Do not use Restasis while wearing contact lenses. Contact lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes following administration of Restasis, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Do not use Restasis if you have any type of infection in the eye(s). This medicine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Restasis without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether Cyclosporine passes into breast milk. Do not use Restasis without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Restasis is applied to the affected eye(s) usually twice a day, about 12 hours apart; or as directed by your doctor.  To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tip of the vial or let it touch your eye. Before opening the vial, make sure the eye drops are well mixed by turning the vial upside down several times before use. Open the vial right before you are about to use it. The eye drops should have a milky, white appearance. Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place the tip of the vial directly over the eye and apply 1 drop. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Discard the remaining contents of the opened vial immediately after use. Do not store the opened vial for later use. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication and do not replace them until 15 minutes following use of these eye drops. If you are also using other drops for dry eyes (e.g., artificial tears), wait 15 minutes between use of the different products.