Restasis Multidose

The active ingredient in Restasis Multidose is cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion. Its mechanism of action is that it is a calcineurin inhibitor, which acts on the immune system as an immunosuppressant to reduce inflammation and promote tear production. It is indicated for keratoconjunctivitis sicca, more commonly known as dry eye.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Restasis Multidose. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Restasis Multidose:

1. Always wash your hands before and after using this product.

2. Turn the vial gently upside down a few times.

3. For a new bottle, squeeze a few drops onto a paper towel or tissue to prime it.

4. Tilt your head back, looking straight up.

5. Pull down on your lower eyelid with one hand to form a pocket.

6. Then, with your free hand, hold the bottle upside down above your eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket. Do not allow the tip of the vial to touch your eye or fingers.

7. Next, release your eyelid and close your eye, pressing your finger to the inner corner (tear duct) of your eye for one minute.

8. Then repeat steps 4-7 for the other eye.

9. Recap the bottle.

The most common side effects of Restasis Multidose seen in clinical trials include:

• Burning sensation.
• Itchy eyes.
• Red eyes.
• Watery eyes.
• Blurred vision.
• Eye discharge.
• Eye pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Restasis Multidose. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Eye injury.
• Eye infections.
• Allergic reactions.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Restasis Multidose. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse reactions to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Restasis Multidose, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you:

Wear contact lenses. If you do, they should be removed when administering the ophthalmic solution and can be re-inserted 15 minutes after administration.

Known or suspected hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in the formulation.

In clinical studies, most people saw an improvement in symptoms within 6 months of starting Restasis Multidose.

When Restasis Multidose is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Restasis Multidose bottles contain cyclosporine emulsion 0.5 mg/mL.

Restasis Multidose bottles should be stored at room temperature out of the reach of children or pets.

Restasis Multidose is manufactured by Allergan Inc.

No, there is no generic version of the multidose bottles, but the single-use vials do have generic equivalents of the brand-name medication.

Should Restasis Multidose not provide effective relief after an adequate trial or if it causes intolerable side effects, talk to your doctor to see if other treatment options may be better for you.

Overall, as this medication is administered locally in the eye, it is expected that it does not achieve adequate levels in the blood to cause harm to a developing fetus. Further, orally administered cyclosporine A is not known to cause fetal harm. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Overall, as this medication is administered locally in the eye, it is expected that it does not achieve adequate levels in the blood to cause harm to a nursing infant. While it is not known to appear in breast milk after oral administration, the effects following topical administration have not been evaluated. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.