Actions and Spectrum: 

Actions:   

cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant drug that works by inhibiting the activity of certain immune cells that cause inflammation. In the eye, it can reduce inflammation and help to increase tear production, which can alleviate symptoms of dry eye.  

Spectrum:   

cyclosporine ophthalmic is typically used to treat moderate to severe dry eye disease, which is a condition that affects the quality and/or quantity of tears. It may also be used to treat other eye conditions that involve inflammation, such as uveitis or conjunctivitis.  

Efficacy:   

Studies have shown that cyclosporine ophthalmic can be an effective treatment for dry eye disease, improving both the signs and symptoms of the condition. However, it may take several weeks of regular use before its full benefits are realized. 

 

DRUG INTERACTION

Contraindicated  

Serious Use Alternative  

Monitor Closely  

Minor  

Frequency Defined  

1-10%  

Discharge  

Conjunctival hyperemia  

Epiphora  

Foreign body sensation  

Eye pain  

Stinging  

Eye pruritus (8%)  

Visual disturbance  

Ocular discomfort (6%)  

Cough (5%)  

Visual acuity reduced (5%)  

Ocular hyperemia (4%)  

Upper respiratory tract infection  

Headache (4%)  

>10%  

Eye pain (12%)  

 

Black Box Warning: 

There is no black box warning for cyclosporine ophthalmic. 

 

Contraindication/Caution: 

cyclosporine ophthalmic is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components of the medication. It is also cautioned in patients with a history of herpetic keratitis and those with active ocular infections.

Additionally, caution should be exercised in patients with a history of malignancy, uncontrolled hypertension, renal impairment, and hepatic impairment.

The use of cyclosporine ophthalmic in pregnant and nursing mothers should be done with caution, and the potential risks and benefits should be weighed before administration. 

 

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

 

Pharmacology:  

cyclosporine ophthalmic is a medication used to treat dry eyes. The pharmacology of cyclosporine ophthalmic involves the inhibition of T-cell activation and cytokine release.   

 Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacology of cyclosporine ophthalmic involves the inhibition of T-cell activation and cytokine release.  

Pharmacokinetics:  

Absorption  

cyclosporine ophthalmic is a topical medication that is applied directly to the eye. The drug is absorbed through the cornea and into the eye tissue.  

Distribution  

cyclosporine is distributed throughout the eye tissue, where it acts locally to reduce inflammation and improve tear production.  

Metabolism  

cyclosporine is metabolized in the liver, and some of the metabolites are excreted in the bile.  

Elimination and Excretion  

cyclosporine is excreted in the feces and urine, with a small amount being eliminated unchanged in the urine. 

 

Administration:  

cyclosporine ophthalmic drops are used to treat dry eyes caused by inflammation. The usual dose is one drop in each eye twice a day, with 12-hour intervals between doses. Before using the medication, wash your hands thoroughly.

 

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: cyclosporine ophthalmic 

Why do we use cyclosporine ophthalmic? 

cyclosporine ophthalmic is used to treat dry eyes, which is a condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the quality of the tears is poor. This can cause discomfort, irritation, and even damage to the eyes over time.