Restasis Eye Drops for Dry Eyes Delivered to the US

What Restasis Is and How It Works

Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%) is a prescription eye drop for chronic dry eye disease, including keratoconjunctivitis sicca. It helps increase tear production in patients whose tear production is presumed to be suppressed due to ocular inflammation. Restasis is usually supplied as preservative-free single-use vials. A multidose bottle may also be available in some markets.

Cyclosporine is a calcineurin inhibitor immunomodulator. Applied topically to the eye, it reduces inflammatory activity on the ocular surface and lacrimal glands. This can restore a healthier tear film over time. The typical dosing cadence is twice daily, about 12 hours apart, in each affected eye.

We coordinate orders through licensed and vetted partner pharmacies to ship to the US. Authentic brand medicines and a broad selection help keep costs affordable. YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy based in Manitoba and operates to Canadian pharmacy standards; prescriptions are reviewed by licensed pharmacists before dispensing by partner pharmacies.

Dosage and Usage

Use Restasis exactly as prescribed. Most adults use one drop in each eye twice daily.

• Wash hands. Shake the single-use vial gently to mix the emulsion.
• Twist off the cap. Do not touch the tip to any surface, including the eye.
• Tilt head back and pull down the lower eyelid to form a small pocket.
• Instill one drop into the affected eye. Repeat for the other eye if prescribed.
• Discard the opened vial after use, even if some liquid remains.
• Space this and other eye drops at least 15 minutes apart.
• Remove contact lenses before dosing; wait 15 minutes before reinserting.

Missed dose: If a dose is missed, instill it when remembered. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up.

Storage and travel:

• Store at room temperature (about 15-25 C). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
• Keep vials in their original foil pouch until use to limit light exposure.
• Do not use if the emulsion appears discolored or particles are present.
• When traveling, keep vials in a carry-on bag and avoid heat extremes.
• Keep out of reach of children. Discard single-use vials after opening.

Benefits and Savings

Restasis reduces ocular surface inflammation and can increase natural tear production over time. Patients often report less burning, stinging, and dryness, and may rely less on artificial tears. Consistent twice-daily use is key to seeing benefits.

YouDrugstore offers brand and generic medicines at Canadian prices, with online ordering and friendly customer-service chat during posted hours. US patients often see 60-80% savings compared with typical US prices, and orders are coordinated for delivery from licensed partner pharmacies.

Restasis is preservative-free in single-use vials, which supports comfort in sensitive eyes. A multidose presentation may be available, depending on supply. Many patients find consistent symptom control, improved tear film stability, and better day-to-day comfort.

Side Effects and Safety

Some patients may experience temporary eye irritation when starting therapy. Many side effects lessen with continued use.

• Common: brief burning or stinging after instillation, eye redness, watery eyes, foreign body sensation, mild blurred vision, and eyelid irritation.
• Less common: discharge, itching, eye pain, light sensitivity.
• Serious: signs of eye infection (worsening pain, swelling, discharge, vision changes), severe allergic reaction, or significant vision loss. Seek medical care if these occur.
• Contact lenses: remove before dosing and wait at least 15 minutes to reinsert.
• Interactions: minimal systemic absorption; separate from other eye drops by 15 minutes.

Do not use during an active eye infection. Discuss pregnancy, breastfeeding, recent ocular surgery, or use in children with a healthcare provider.

Onset Time

Some patients notice symptom relief after 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use. Tear production and comfort often continue to improve over 3 to 6 months. Do not stop early without medical guidance, since the medication acts gradually by reducing ocular inflammation.

Compare With Alternatives

Xiidra Ophthalmic Solution (lifitegrast 5%) is another prescription drop for dry eye disease. It targets a different inflammatory pathway (LFA-1/ICAM-1). Many patients feel relief sooner with Xiidra, but some prefer Restasis for long-term control. Tolerability profiles differ; burning or dysgeusia can be more common with Xiidra.

Generic cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion may be available in select markets. It is intended to be equivalent to brand Restasis, though packaging and vial design can differ. Ask about current availability and pricing.

Artificial tears and lubricating gels can help with breakthrough symptoms and are often used alongside Restasis. For allergic eye symptoms like itching, an antihistamine/mast cell stabilizer such as Pataday (olopatadine) may help, though it does not treat the underlying dry eye inflammation. Post-surgical anti-inflammatory drops such as Nevanac are not indicated for chronic dry eye.

Combination Therapy

Restasis is often part of a broader dry eye plan. Supportive options include preservative-free artificial tears, warm compresses, eyelid hygiene for meibomian gland function, and omega-3 intake as advised by a clinician. Punctal plugs may be considered in moderate to severe cases.

When using multiple eye medications, separate each product by at least 15 minutes. If an eye ointment is used, apply it last. Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or lashes to prevent contamination.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Restasis suits adults with chronic dry eye in whom ocular inflammation is suspected to suppress tears, including those with Dry Eye Syndrome or Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca. It is not for immediate relief. Patients with active eye infections or known hypersensitivity to cyclosporine should not use it.

To reduce monthly costs, consider multi-month supplies when available. Per-month pricing often improves with larger quantities. Reorder reminders can help maintain therapy continuity and avoid rush shipping. Where approved, a generic of Restasis may offer additional savings. For current promotions and bulk options, see our restasis coupon page.

Learn about brand-versus-generic considerations in our article Generics Vs Brand Name Medications, and find eye care tips in Healthy Vision Month Protect Your Eyes Today. Patients with complicating eye disorders may need tailored plans; ongoing follow-up supports the best outcomes.

Authoritative Sources

See the manufacturer information on the Restasis official site for product details and patient resources.

Review the FDA-approved labeling in the FDA Prescribing Information for indications, dosing, and safety.

Consult the Health Canada Drug Product Database entry for Health Canada DPD – Restasis for Canadian product status.

Ready to order Restasis online at Canadian prices? We coordinate with licensed partner pharmacies and arrange prompt, express, cold-chain shipping to the US. Start your request, upload a valid prescription, and our team will handle the rest with clear updates.

Disclaimer: This material is for general information only and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. Restasis is a prescription medicine and may not be right for every patient. Always follow the directions provided with the medication and by the prescriber.