ciclosporin (Santen Pharmaceutical)

Ikervis is a topical ophthalmic formulation of ciclosporin (0.1% or 1 mg/mL) developed by Santen. It is a cationic oil-in-water emulsion that utilizes the Novasorb technology to enhance the residence time of the drug on the ocular surface. Ciclosporin is an immunosuppressive agent that acts by inhibiting calcineurin, a phosphatase responsible for the dephosphorylation of the transcription factor NF-AT (nuclear factor of activated T-cells). By preventing NF-AT translocation into the nucleus, ciclosporin blocks the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2), thereby reducing T-cell mediated inflammation in the cornea and conjunctiva. It is specifically indicated for the treatment of severe keratitis in adult patients with dry eye disease which has not improved despite treatment with tear substitutes.

Brand names

Ikervis

Other names

cyclosporineciclosporin ACsA