How It Works
Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive medicine that decreases the action of your body's immune system. Cyclosporine ophthalmic is used in eyedrop form to treat Sjögren's syndrome, a disease that causes dry eyes and mouth.
Cyclosporine ophthalmic eyedrops usually are applied twice a day, or as directed by your doctor.
Why It Is Used
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the body's moisture-producing glands and may eventually cause problems with the function of vital organs, such as the lungs, bladder, kidneys, and liver. Cyclosporine reduces the immune system's action in the glands that moisten the eyes and may reduce eye inflammation.
How Well It Works
Studies report that cyclosporine ophthalmic is effective in increasing tear production, relieving blurred vision, and decreasing the use of artificial tears.1
Side Effects
Cyclosporine ophthalmic does not cause lasting side effects. Temporary side effects include eye burning, redness, tearing, discharge, pain, itching, stinging, and visual blurring.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Do not apply cyclosporine ophthalmic medicine while wearing contact lenses. After you apply cyclosporine, wait at least 15 minutes, or as long as is advised by your doctor, to insert contact lenses.
To prevent eye infection, be careful not to contaminate the stopper by touching it to any surface, including your eyes, your hands, the sink, or the countertop.
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Credits
| Author | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology |
| Last Updated | May 6, 2008 |
