Cysteamine for ophthalmology

Cysteamine for ophthalmology

Cysteamine for ophthalmology

What is cysteamine in ophthalmology?

Cysteamine ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to prevent the formation of cystine crystals in the cornea (surface of the eye).

Cysteamine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Side effects of cysteamine on the eye

If necessary, get emergency medical helpSigns of an allergic reaction:hives; difficult breathing; Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Cysteamine ophthalmic can cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• Increased pressure inside the skull – severe headaches, ringing in the ears, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, pain behind the eyes.

Common side effects of cysteamine in ophthalmology may include:

• eye pain, redness, itching, or irritation;

• visibility problems;

• Headache; or

• increased sensitivity to light.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all instructions on the label and packaging of your medicine. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies and any medications you take.

Before you take this medicine

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Cysteamine is not approved for use by anyone under 18 years of age.

How should I use cysteamine ophthalmic?

Follow all instructions on your prescription label and read any medication guides or instructions for use. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take orally. Cysteamine ophthalmic is intended for use in the eyes only.

Cystaran is usually used once an hour while you are awake. Cystadrops are usually used four times a day. Follow your doctor's dosage instructions very carefully.

Do not use if you wear soft contact lenses. A preservative in cysteamine ophthalmics could permanently discolor the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Wash your hands before applying eye medications.

To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down to create a small pocket. Hold the eyedropper over the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.

Only use the number of drops prescribed by your doctor.

Do not touch the tip of the eyedropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated eyedropper can infect your eye and cause serious vision problems.

Storage of cysteamine in ophthalmology:

• Store the bottle in the original carton.

• Store cystaran in the freezer until you are ready to use it. Before first use, thaw the bottle for 24 hours and then store tightly closed in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Do not refreeze after thawing.

• Store Cystadrops in the refrigerator. After opening the bottle for the first time, keep it tightly closed in the refrigerator or at room temperature and protected from light. Do not store in the refrigerator after opening the bottle.

Throw away the bottle after one week of use, even if there is still medicine in it. If you use Cystaran, take a new bottle out of the freezer in a timely manner to allow it to thaw for 24 hours so you don't miss a dose.

Information on the ophthalmic dosage of cysteamine

Usual adult dose for cystine crystal accumulation in the cornea:

Place one drop in each eye every waking hour. Discard after 1 week of use.

Application: Treatment of accumulation of corneal cystine crystals in patients with cystinosis.

Usual pediatric dose for corneal cystine crystal accumulation:

Place one drop in each eye every waking hour. Discard after 1 week of use.

Application: Treatment of accumulation of corneal cystine crystals in patients with cystinosis.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you remember and then return to your regular schedule. Do not use two doses at the same time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of cysteamine is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222 if someone accidentally swallows the medication.

What should I avoid when using cysteamine in ophthalmology?

Your dosage needs may change if you switch to a different brand or strength of cysteamine eye medicine. Avoid medication errors by only using the form and strength prescribed by your doctor.

What other drugs affect cysteamine ophthalmology?

Medications you use in the eyes are unlikely to be affected by other medications you are taking. But many medications can interact. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products.

More information

Remember to keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medicine only for the prescribed indication.