Restasis®
cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%
Clinical Snapshot
Restasis was the first FDA-approved prescription dry eye therapy in the United States. It delivers cyclosporine via an oil-in-water emulsion and is believed to increase tear production in patients whose production is suppressed by ocular surface inflammation.
Mechanism of Action
Cyclosporine inhibits T-lymphocyte activation by blocking calcineurin, thereby reducing inflammatory cytokine production and T-cell–mediated damage to lacrimal gland and ocular surface epithelium. This reduces the inflammatory burden that suppresses tear production.
Common Clinical Applications
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye disease) with presumed inflammatory component
Typical Dosing Principles
One drop in each eye twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart). Shake well before use.
Dosing information is provided for educational purposes. Always consult current prescribing information for specific dosing protocols.
Important Precautions
- Contraindicated in patients with active ocular infections.
- Not for use while wearing contact lenses; lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes after dosing.
- Burning upon instillation is the most commonly reported adverse effect.
Clinical Pearls
- Clinical benefit typically requires 3–6 months of consistent use — patient counseling on timeline is essential.
- Burning upon instillation is a frequent reason for discontinuation; proactive counseling improves adherence.
- The emulsion vehicle may cause transient blurred vision after instillation.
- Generic cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion is available and may offer cost advantages.
Commonly Associated Disease States
Select any disease state to explore its full entry in the Disease State Library.
Dry Eye Disease
One of the most prevalent conditions in optometric practice; a leading cause of patient dissatisfaction and reduced quality of life, with significant implications for contact lens wear, surgical candidacy, and systemic disease management.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
The leading cause of evaporative dry eye disease; present in the majority of dry eye patients and a critical target in comprehensive ocular surface management.
This entry is an educational reference designed to support clinical reasoning and therapeutic awareness. It does not constitute medical advice, establish a standard of care, or replace individualized patient assessment. Clinicians should consult current prescribing information before initiating any therapy.