Allergan has announced that Health Canada has approved Restasis (cyclosporine) ophthalmic emulsion, 0.05% w/v for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe Dry Eye disease (Dry Eye). Restasis is the first prescription eye drop to target the underlying cause of chronic Dry Eye.

The prevalence of Dry Eye increases with age, affecting five to 30 per cent of the people over the age of 50, and is one of the most common reasons that people visit their eye doctor. Dry Eye occurs when the eye fails to produce the proper quantity and/or quality of tears to keep the eye moist. Tears act as a natural lubricant to protect against bacteria and environmental irritants such as dust, smoke, or extreme weather. Restasis helps increase the eye’s natural ability to produce tears, which may be reduced by inflammation due to Dry Eye.

“Dry Eye can cause fluctuating and reduced vision that can affect a person ability to work, drive be self dependent and have a serious impact on their quality of life,” says Dr. Bruce Jackson, Professor of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, The Ottawa Hospital. “By increasing tear production, Restasis is the first approved drug that targets the underlying cause of dry eye. We know that by decreasing inflammation it will increase tear production – decreasing discomfort – and can improve the patients overall quality of life.”

Symptoms of dry eye disease can vary in degree of severity and can include: pain, itching, irritation, light sensitivity, and a sandy or gritty sensation. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems, including scarring or ulceration of the cornea and increased risk of eye infection.

“Dry Eye is more than just the symptoms, it interferes with every aspect of your life and stops you from doing the things you love,” says Diane Pilon. “Restasis gave me my life back. With clear vision and being pain free – I’m driving safely, reading more comfortably, and have even gone back to skiing.”

Restasis is a safe and effective treatment for dry eye and is the only therapeutic eye drop demonstrated to treat the underlying cause of dry eye. In a study of, 145 patients, 83 per cent surveyed stated that they had an intention to continue using Restasis ophthalmic emulsion. Further, only five out of 293 patients discontinued use of Restasis due to burning or stinging. It helps to increase the eyes’ natural ability to produce tears, which may be reduced by inflammation due to dry eye and should be dosed at one drop per eye, twice daily.

Allergan is a multi-specialty health care company established 60 years ago with a commitment to uncover the best of science and develop and deliver innovative and meaningful treatments to help people reach their life’s potential.