Ciclosporin Eye Drops — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Ciclosporin Eye Drops?
Ciclosporin ophthalmic emulsion (Ikervis®) is an immunosuppressant eye drop used for severe dry eye disease associated with inflammation. This medication is funded by Pharmac under Special Authority for severe dry eye disease.
What is Ciclosporin Eye Drops Used For?
Ciclosporin 0.1% ophthalmic emulsion (Ikervis®) is used for severe keratitis (inflammation and ulceration of the cornea) in adults with dry eye disease that has not responded adequately to lubricating eye drops.
How Does Ciclosporin Eye Drops Work?
Ciclosporin inhibits calcineurin-dependent T lymphocyte activation in the ocular surface, reducing the inflammatory cascade that drives corneal damage and dry eye disease. Unlike systemic ciclosporin, ophthalmic formulations are poorly absorbed into the systemic circulation.
How to Take Ciclosporin Eye Drops
One drop in each affected eye, once daily at bedtime. Contact lenses should be removed before instillation and may be reinserted 15 minutes later. Shake well before use. Improvement may take 3–6 months of regular treatment.
Common Side Effects of Ciclosporin Eye Drops
- Burning and stinging on instillation (very common — particularly at the start of treatment)
- Eye pain
- Foreign body sensation
- Tearing
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Rarely, transient blurring of vision
- No significant systemic side effects due to minimal absorption
Drug Interactions
Ciclosporin Eye Drops may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- No significant systemic interactions (due to minimal absorption)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Ciclosporin 0.1% ophthalmic emulsion (Ikervis® 0.1% single-dose units) is funded by Pharmac under Special Authority for severe keratitis in dry eye disease, assessed by an ophthalmologist. The instillation burning typically reduces over the first few weeks of treatment. Regular lubricating eye drops may continue alongside Ikervis®.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does ciclosporin eye drops sting so much?
Ikervis® contains ciclosporin in an oil-in-water emulsion, which can cause a significant burning sensation on instillation — particularly at the start of treatment. This is due to the emulsion and the inflammatory state of the ocular surface. Bedtime dosing minimises the impact, and the burning usually reduces significantly over the first few weeks.
How long will it take before ciclosporin eye drops help my dry eyes?
Improvement in corneal inflammation and dry eye symptoms typically takes 3–6 months of consistent nightly treatment. Some patients notice improvement at 3 months; others may take longer. Continued use is important even if improvement seems slow.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: