Cyclosporine is prescribed to help individuals with dry eye disease (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) increase tear production. Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes are not able to produce tears that adequately lubricate the eye. When you blink, tears lubricate the surface of your eyes, keeping them free of foreign materials. When the glands in and around the eyelid are unable to produce enough tears to properly lubricate the surface of the eye, your eyes may feel dry and uncomfortable. Not only can dry eyes be uncomfortable, but they may also lead to eye damage and infection.

Common symptoms of dry eyes include:
Eye redness
Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensations in the eye
Watery eyes
Light sensitivity
Blurry vision

Dry eyes can be uncomfortable and dangerous. Eyes that lack lubrication are at risk of inflammation, damage, and infections. Poorly lubricated eyes are common for adults over the age of 50. Women are at greater risk of dry eyes due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause, as are people who frequently wear contact lenses.

Cyclosporine has been shown to cause some side effects. If these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days or become severe, talk to your health care provider.

Common side effects reported from taking cyclosporine include:

• Burning, itching, or irritation of the eyes
  
• Swelling
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Eye discharge
  
• Headache
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling, or itching.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with cyclosporine. Cyclosporine can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. In addition, let your doctor know if you are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding.

For adults and children over the age of 12, one drop of cyclosporine should be applied to each affected eye every twelve hours. For individuals managing vernal keratoconjunctivitis (chronic and severe allergic inflammation of the eye), one drop should be applied to each affected eye 4 times a day.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of cyclosporine without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Cyclosporine is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not cyclosporine is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for cyclosporine to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.