DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion

July 17, 2018

Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion

What is this medicine?

CYCLOSPORINE (SYE kloe spor een) eye drops are used to increase tear production in patients who have dry eyes due to eye inflammation.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Turn the vial upside down once or twice to shake the contents before use. Wash hands before and after use. Use the product immediately after opening the vial and throw the vial away right after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye for a few moments to spread the drops and apply gentle finger pressure to the inner corner of the eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • eye discharge

  • swelling around the eye

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision

  • excessive tearing

  • eye burning or stinging

  • eye itching

  • feeling as if something is in your eye

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Once a vial is open, use it right away and throw away any remaining medicine in the vial. Throw away any unused vials after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • an active eye infection

  • a history of herpes keratitis

  • using punctal plugs

  • wear contact lenses

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to cyclosporine, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular eye exams. Ask your doctor or health care professional if you should continue to use this medicine if you injure your eyes or need eye surgery. If you develop an eye infection, contact your doctor or health care professional immediately.

If you wear contact lenses, you should not put this medicine in your eyes while wearing the lenses. After using the eye drops, wait about 15 minutes before putting lenses in your eyes.

You can use artificial tear products while using this medicine; however you should wait at least 15 minutes before using the this medicine.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018