Cyclosporine [Ophthalmic]
Indications
Cyclosporine Ophthalmic Emulsion is indicated to increase tear production in patients whose tear production is presumed to be suppressed due to ocular inflammation associated with dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca).
In addition to this, several clinical studies have showed that cyclosporine is effective in the management of different eye diseases like vernal keratoconjunctivitis, posterior blepharitis, non-infectious uveitis, superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis, phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis and meibomian gland diseases.
Pharmacology
Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive agent when administered systemically. In patients whose tear production is presumed to be suppressed due to ocular inflammation associated with keratoconjunctivitis sicca, topical Cyclosporine is thought to act as a partial immunomodulator.
Dosage And Administration
One drop of Cyclosporine eye drop should be instilled twice a day in each eye approximately 12 hours apart. Cyclosporine eye drop can be used concomitantly with artificial tears, allowing a 15-minute interval between products.
Contraindications
Cyclosporine is contraindicated in patients with active ocular infections and in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in the formulation.
Side Effects
The most common adverse event was ocular burning. Other events reported included conjunctival hyperemia, discharge, epiphora, eye pain, foreign body sensation, pruritus, stinging, and visual disturbance (most often blurring).
Pregnancy And Lactation
Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Cyclosporine Ophthalmic Emulsion in pregnant women. It should be administered to pregnant women if clearly needed.
Lactation: Cyclosporine is known to be excreted in human milk following systemic administration but excretion in human milk after topical treatment has not been investigated. Although blood concentrations are undetectable after topical administration of Cyclosporine eye drop, caution should be exercised when Cyclosporine is administered to a nursing woman.
Precautions And Warnings
Cyclosporine eye drop should not be administered while wearing contact lenses. Patients with decreased tear production typically should not wear contact lenses. If contact lenses are worn, they should be removed prior to the administration of this formulation. Lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes following administration of Cyclosporine eye drop.
Therapeutic Class
Drugs for Dry eyes