Restasis users?

I just had my 6 mos. eye exam (per plaquenil use) and the doc suggested I start Restasis. I am a big baby when it comes to adding medicines (rheumy Rx'd Evoxac for dry mouth - I read the side effects list and chickened out). The eye doc says there are no side effects beyond initial burning and irritation - that it doesn't accumulate in the bloodstream......

Would appreciate hearing from Restasis users for chronic dry eye....love it, hate it, helped, didn't help?

Thanks!

Lucy

Thanks, Lynnewood - I'll post over on the Sjogren's board. Should have thought of that. I've used Refresh drops off and on for about 5 yrs. too - also trying to avoid the Prescription strength stuff. They work sometimes and not at other times. Just can't decide, but the doc made me feel that it was more than a comfort thing and would be offering some protection as well. Thanks for the input!

Hi Lucy,

I have been using restasis for about a year and a half. No problems or issues, every once in a while I will have a little burning sensation - but it is not bad and doesn't last long (maybe once a month). I completely understand about the side effects, have had reactions to most everything (just had a failed attempt at evoxac, so back on the biotene).

The restasis alone didn't resolve all my dryness issues, I kept having issues with blepharitis and dryness so my eye doctor added punctual plugs. Between the two, I am much better - can even manage my contact lenses a couple of days a week now. If I use contacts I will use moisture drops a couple of times a day...don't want to push my luck

Amber