Long Use of Restasis Drops Safe for Dry Eyes?
Unlike an artificial tear product that just temporarily adds moisture to the dry eye, Restasis suppresses the activity of the inflammatory cells that are reducing tear production.
Restasis is a weak (0.05 percent) solution of cyclosporine, an immune-suppressing drug used in organ transplantation to prevent tissue rejection. It's also used in the treatment of psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease and other situations where we need to suppress a patient's overactive immune system.
Since there is no detectable absorption of cyclosporine into the bloodstream, the low concentration of cyclosporine in Restasis appears safe for long-term use. Keep in mind that, if left untreated, a chronic dry-eye condition can lead to corneal injury and an increased risk of getting an eye infection.
In other words, it's treating the root cause of the problem. Restasis can be used alone or in combination with an artificial tear product. If the person is already using an anti-inflammatory eyedrop, Restasis won't be of much help.
Restasis used twice daily may not give you much relief for at least several weeks, so you'll need a moisturizing drop for immediate relief.
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Filed under Dry Eyes, Eye Treatment
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