The recommended dose of cyclosporine eye drops is one drop into each eye twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart.
Before using Restasis (Cyclosporine-opht), gently shake the container a few times so that the emulsion looks white and appears the same throughout the vial or bottle. If you are using the single-use vials, instill the medication immediately after opening a single-use vial and discard immediately after use.
You should avoid touching the tip of the vial or dropper bottle to the eye or any surface to prevent Restasis (Cyclosporine-opht) from getting contaminated. Do not touch the vial container to the eye to prevent any potential eye injury.
If you are also using artificial tears, wait 15 minutes between using cyclosporine eye drops and the artificial tears.
In general, people with decreased tear production should not wear contact lenses; however, if you wear contact lenses, take them out before using cyclosporine eye drops. You can put your lenses in 15 minutes after administering these eye drops.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use Restasis (Cyclosporine-opht) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, instill it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not instill a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store Restasis (Cyclosporine-opht) at 15°C to 25°C and keep it out of the reach of children. Keep unused single-dose vials within the resealable tray. The multi-dose vial should be discarded 30 days after opening the bottle.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.