Restasis, manufactured by Allergan Inc., is an ophthalmic prescription emulsion that is FDA-approved for the treatment of reduced tear production in the eyes due to ocular inflammation, a condition commonly known as chronic dry eye. Restasis is a sterile and preservative-free emulsion, composed of cyclosporine, an active drug that occurs as a fine white powder.
Identification
Cyclosporine is made of naturally occurring nitrogen, oxygen, carbon and hydrogen. The white powder is diluted with inactive materials, thoroughly mixed and stabilized to a concentration of 0.05 percent to create Restasis emulsion. Some of the inactive components of Restasis include water, castor oil and glycerin. As a finished product, Restasis is an emulsion that is white to opaque-colored.
Function
The exact way Restasis functions on the eyes is unknown; however, it is thought to work to promote the body's ability to increase tear production in people whose tear production is suppressed due to ocular inflammation. Restasis also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Administration
Restasis separates on standing and so should be inverted several times until a uniformed white emulsion develops prior to use. The usual dose is one drop in each affected eye every 12 hours unless directed otherwise by a physician. Since Restasis is free of preservatives, it can easily be contaminated. When administering Restasis, do not let the tip of the vial touch the eye, and discard it immediately after use. Restasis is packaged in single units of 30 vials that are dispensed as a package.
Precautions
Restasis should never be applied into an infected eye since it could contaminate the medication, as well as possibly worsen the infection. It should never be administered while wearing contact lenses. It should not be applied within five minutes of using another eye drop since Restasis interacts with several drugs. It should be avoided in patients who are allergic or sensitive to cyclosporine.
Side Effects
Restasis may sting temporarily. Other side effects include alteration in vision, eye pain, redness of inner eyes, watery eyes, itchy eyes and skin, burning in the eye, a feeling of a foreign particle in the eye, sticky eyelashes, and yellowish or whitish discharge from the eye.
Member Comments