Restasis Side Effects

Summary

The most common side effects of Restasis are blurred vision, headaches, mild burning, stinging, pain and itching in the eyes. These side effects usually do not require medical attention however, if they persist or become bothersome you should notify your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.

Common Restasis Side Effects

The most common cyclosporine side effects include the following:

• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Sensation of having something in your eyes
• Mild burning or eye pain
• Stinging
• Itching

The side effects listed above usually do not require medical attention as they will commonly diminish when your body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor may also be able to advise you of ways to reduce or prevent these common side effects from occurring. However, if any persist or become bothersome you should notify your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.

Serious Restasis Side Effects

An allergic reaction can occur while using Restasis. If you experience any of the following symptoms indicating an allergic reaction, get emergency medical help right away.

• Swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue
• Difficulty breathing
• Tightness in chest
• Rash, hives, or itching

Many other cyclosporine side effects can occur that are not indicative of an allergic reaction but that are still very serious. If you experience any of the following severe side effects, notify your doctor immediately.

• Eye irritation, itching, or if burning persists or worsens
• Excessive tear production
• Eye pain, swelling, or redness
• Persistent blurred vision
• Discharge from eyes
• Changes in vision

Existing Medical Conditions

Restasis should not be used if a patient has an active eye infection. Additionally, this medication should not be used on patients who have a history of herpes viral eye infections as there are no studies to support treating this condition. If you are pregnant or may become pregnant you should talk to your doctor before using this product. Restasis has been placed in category C by the FDA, which means that it is not known if it will be harmful to an unborn child. It is also important to talk to your doctor before taking this medication if you are breastfeeding as it is unknown if Restasis passes through breast milk and what effect it may have on a newborn.

Other Medications

It is important to inform your doctor of all prescription, over the counter, and herbal medications that you are taking prior to starting a new one. You should not use Restasis with other eye drops or medications unless your doctor has advised you to do so. Artificial tears can be used with this product but you should wait 15 minutes after using Restasis before applying them.

Restasis is an immunosuppressive agent used to treat inflammation of the eye and chronic dry eye. Talk to your doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you wear contact lenses, take them out 15 minutes before using Restasis and wait an additional 15 minutes before replacing them. If you experience a severe side effect or if a common one becomes bothersome you should notify your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.