Product Details: Restasis (Cyclosporine Opthalmic 0.05%)

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: Allergan

Generic Options - Manufacturer: Generic

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This medicine is a topical immunomodulator used to treat dry eyes due to an eye condition known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca. This medicine works by increasing the amount of tears you make.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine is to be used in the eye only. This medicine is usually placed in the affected eye(s) twice a day, about 12 hours apart. BEFORE OPENING THE VIAL, make sure the eye drops are mixed well by turning the vial upside down several times before use. Open the vial right before you are about to use the drops. The eye drops should have a milky, white appearance. TO USE THIS MEDICINE: first, wash your hands. Tilt your head back and with your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close the eye. Immediately use your finger to apply pressure to the inside corner of the eye and continue to apply pressure for 1 to 2 minutes after using the medicine. This will prevent medicine from draining away from the eye. Do not blink and keep your eyes closed for 1 or 2 minutes. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean tissue, being careful not to touch your eye. Wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. TO PREVENT GERMS from entering your medicine, do not touch the vial tip to any surface including your eye. Discard the remaining contents of the opened vial immediately after use. Do NOT store the opened vial for later use. IF YOU WEAR CONTACTS, remove them prior to using this medicine and do not replace them for 15 minutes after using these eye drops. IF YOU ARE USING OTHER EYE DROPS for dry eyes (e.g., artificial tears), wait 15 minutes between the use of the different products. STORE UNUSED VIALS OF THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C) away from heat, moisture, and light. DO NOT STORE in the bathroom. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT use 2 doses at once.

Cautions

DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE BLURRED VISION. USE CAUTION engaging in activities that require clear vision such as driving or using machinery. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include burning, stinging, redness, pain, or itching in the treated eye(s); blurred vision; feeling as if something is in the eye(s); or eye discharge. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, severe itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Cyclosporine Opthalmic 0.05%