Restasis (Cyclosporine 0.05%)

Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%) is a prescription eye drop that helps increase your eyes' natural ability to produce tears. It's one of the most widely prescribed treatments for dry eye disease.

How It Works

Restasis contains cyclosporine, an immunomodulator that:

• Reduces inflammation on the eye surface
• Allows your tear glands to function better
• Helps restore natural tear production
• Addresses the underlying disease, not just symptoms

Common Uses

• Dry eye disease with reduced tear production
• When over-the-counter artificial tears aren't enough
• May be used with other dry eye treatments
• Not for immediate symptom relief

How to Use

• Dosing: One drop in each eye twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart
• Preparation: Turn the single-use vial upside down and shake once before opening
• Instillation: Wash hands, tilt head back, pull down lower eyelid, apply drop
• After instillation: Close eyes gently for 1-2 minutes
• Single-use vials: Discard after use (preservative-free)
• Contact lenses: Remove before use; wait 15 minutes before reinserting
• Multiple drops: Wait 15 minutes between different eye drops

What to Expect

Timeline

• Week 1-4: May not notice much difference; some patients experience more discomfort initially
• Month 1-3: Gradual improvement may begin
• Month 3-6: Full effect typically achieved
• Ongoing: Continue use to maintain benefits

Important Points

• Keep using artificial tears as needed for comfort
• Don't give up too soon—it takes time
• Consistent use is key to success

Side Effects

Common

• Burning or stinging upon instillation (occurs in about 15-20% of patients)
• Eye redness
• Discharge
• Watery eyes
• Blurred vision (temporary)

Less Common

• Eye pain
• Foreign body sensation
• Itching
• Visual disturbance

Managing Burning

• Often improves with continued use
• Refrigerating drops may help
• Use preservative-free artificial tears before Restasis
• Some patients find improvement after a few weeks

Precautions

• Eye infections: Don't use during active eye infection
• Contact lenses: Remove before use; wait 15 minutes to reinsert
• Herpes keratitis history: Use with caution
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Discuss with doctor

Cost and Insurance

• Generic available: Cyclosporine 0.05% emulsion
• Insurance coverage varies
• Generic may be more affordable
• Manufacturer savings programs may be available

Restasis vs. Other Options

Medication	Mechanism	Onset	Notes
Restasis	Immunomodulator	Weeks-months	Original cyclosporine for dry eye
Cequa	Immunomodulator	Weeks-months	Higher concentration (0.09%)
Xiidra	LFA-1 antagonist	May be faster	Different mechanism
Artificial tears	Lubrication	Immediate	Symptom relief only

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to use Restasis?

Dry eye is usually a chronic condition. Most patients use Restasis indefinitely to maintain improvement. If you stop, symptoms typically return because the medication controls, rather than cures, the condition.

Why does Restasis burn?

Cyclosporine can cause temporary discomfort upon instillation in some patients. This often improves with continued use. Refrigerating the drops or using artificial tears beforehand may help.

Can I use Restasis with artificial tears?

Yes, and you should! Restasis works on the underlying inflammation but takes time to work. Artificial tears provide immediate comfort. Just wait 15 minutes between different drops.

Is generic as good as brand-name Restasis?

Generic cyclosporine 0.05% contains the same active ingredient. Most patients do well with generic versions. If you notice a difference, discuss with your doctor.

What if Restasis isn't working for me?

Make sure you've used it consistently for at least 3-6 months before concluding it doesn't work. If ineffective, alternatives include Cequa, Xiidra, or other dry eye treatments.

Can Restasis cure my dry eye?

Restasis controls dry eye but doesn't cure it. Like many chronic conditions, ongoing treatment is usually needed to maintain benefits.