Restasis Drops

[Janet Manning]

Hi Anne,
I was given the veterinary version of cyclosporin eye drops by Moorfields, but chose not to use them having read up about the immuno suppressant effect. Even eye drops can have a systemic effect. You have probably noticed that a few minutes after putting in eye drops you can often taste them in your mouth. My dad was given drops for glaucoma, when he was on tablets to reduce his blood pressure, and the combination reduced his blood pressure too much and he kept passing out.

I use sodium cromoglicate drops for dry eye and can now manage on 2 drops a day, though was originally prescribed four. These are also expensive, but available on the NHS from Moorfields. I get a pre payment card. I think these drops are less damaging in the long run, than immuno suppressants - though maybe others know more than I do. I don't like using any drugs, but a compromise has to be made to extend lens wear.

I realise you may be struggling with eczema round your eyes too and/ or other allergic reactions, but there are other ways to deal with this, though they may take longer to get a result. It might be a good idea to look into the immuno suppressant aspect of cyclosporin before you go ahead.

[GarethB]

Restasis appears to be 0.05% cyclosporin where most others seem to be much higher. Not sure about the veterinary versions.

[Anne B]

Janet, Thanks for your concern but i have taken oral cyclosporin before and i am well informed of the risks.
I have been attending Moorfields on and off since i was 11 and There isn't much i haven't tried. I will mention the drops you talk about at my next visit. My eyes don't just itch and go red, they can get swollen and crusty they bleed and the outer corners are cracked. when i wake up my eyes are stuck together and if i rub my eyes they look so bad i cannot leave the house.
I don't have a problem with taking medication and being on prednisolone and cyclosporin was the best thing that had happened to me in years (i almost felt human again) It gave me a year off and it was bliss
I don't think Restasis will be the answer to my problem because of the expense, but i am trying them. And there does seem to be a slight improvement already.

Anne