cysteamine ophthalmic

What is the most important information I should know about cysteamine ophthalmic?

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is cysteamine ophthalmic?

Cysteamine works by reducing the amount of cystine (an amino acid) in the body. Cysteamine is used in people with cystinosis (SIS-tin-OH-sis), a rare genetic condition that causes a build-up of cystine in the kidneys and other organs, including the eyes.

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using cysteamine ophthalmic?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I use cysteamine ophthalmic?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Cystaran is usually used once every hour while you are awake. Cystadrops are usually applied 4 times per day. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in this medicine could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

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

Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

• Keep the bottle in the original carton.
• Store Cystaran in a freezer until you are ready to start using it. Thaw for 24 hours before your first use, then store the bottle tightly closed in a refrigerator or at room temperature. Do not refreeze after thawing.
• Store Cystadrops in a refrigerator. After first opening the bottle, store it in a refrigerator or at room temperature tightly closed and protected from light. Do not refrigerate after opening the bottle.

Throw the bottle away after 1 week of use, even if there is still medicine inside. If using Cystaran, remove a new bottle from the freezer in time to allow 24 hours for thawing so you will not miss a dose.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you remember, and then go back to your regular schedule. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while using cysteamine ophthalmic?

Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand or strength of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using only the form and strength your doctor prescribes.

What are the possible side effects of cysteamine ophthalmic?

• increased pressure inside the skull --severe headaches, ringing in your ears, dizziness, nausea, vision problems, pain behind your eyes.

Common side effects may include:

• eye pain, redness, itching, or irritation;
• vision 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 may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect cysteamine ophthalmic?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about cysteamine ophthalmic.