Question 1

dr. put me on restasis for 2 months + otc drops. how long can one stay on restasis - forever?

Accepted Answer

Indefinitely: Many patients doing well on Restasis will stay on it indefinitely. Remember that dry eye syndrome is a progressive disease in many people and while Restasis can slow the progression and increase tear production, it does not cure the disease. Much like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, the medications control, not cure, the condition and must be taken chronically.

Question 2

can you use restasis with lopidine?

Accepted Answer

Yes: However, you might want to consider options.  If you need Restasis because your eyes are dry, you could look into preservative-free eye drops to treat your glaucoma, as preservatives tend to dry the eyes.  You may also consider laser treatment for glaucoma to get off glaucoma drops all together.  This may improve your dry eye symptoms.

Question 3

can restasis make some problems worse?

Accepted Answer

Restasis: The most common side effect is a temporary burning sensation. Other side effects include eye redness, discharge, watery eyes, eye pain, foreign body sensation, itching, stinging, and blurred vision. If you develop these or other side effects, you should contact your eye doctor to see if the use should be stopped.

Question 4

what are the alternatives for restasis?

Accepted Answer

Many: Lotemax (loteprednol) FML or artificial tears.

Question 5

how long before restasis starts to work?

Accepted Answer

Can take awhile: Usually give it a few months
based upon it's supposed mechanism, it doesn't work immediately (except that the vehicle is a great artificial tear so that can help a little)
http://www.Restasis.Com/_learn_about/learn_whattoexpect.Htm.

Question 6

is restasis safe for long term use? meaning years?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Restasis is safe to use for years.   If you are concerned about it, discuss having punctal occlusion with your ophthalmologist.  This five-minute procedure permanently increases your tears.

Question 7

is there a major difference between cequa and restasis ?

Accepted Answer

: The major difference is the concentration of the primary drug in each product. Both contain the topical agent cyclosporine. Cequa is made by Sun Pharmaceuticals and is a 0.09% solution. Restasis is made by Allergan and is a 0.05% solution. Both products are by prescription only and are used every 12 hours in the management of dry eyes.

Question 8

for how long does it take until restasis becomes effective?

Accepted Answer

6 weeks: It typically takes six weeks before a change is noted.  Be patient.

Question 9

can you buy restasis over-the-counter ?

Accepted Answer

No: It is available only by prescription.

Question 10

can i use restasis while wearing contacts?

Accepted Answer

Ok: Usually ok to use drops with contacts, if you put it in when wearing them however, some of the med can soak into contact lens so commonly suggested to remove them when putting in topical medications.

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Doctor answers about:

Restasis medication

A member asked:

Dr. put me on restasis for 2 months + otc drops. how long can one stay on restasis - forever?

A member asked:

Can you use restasis with lopidine?

A member asked:

Can restasis make some problems worse?

A member asked:

What are the alternatives for restasis?

A member asked:

How long before restasis starts to work?

A member asked:

Is restasis safe for long term use? meaning years?

A member asked:

Is there a major difference between cequa and restasis ?

A member asked:

For how long does it take until restasis becomes effective?

A member asked:

Can you buy restasis over-the-counter ?

A member asked:

Can i use restasis while wearing contacts?

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