cyclosporine + carboxymethylcellulose

A fixed-dose combination product consisting of **cyclosporine** (an immunosuppressant calcineurin inhibitor) and **carboxymethylcellulose** (a cellulose derivative used as an ocular lubricant/artificial tear). Cyclosporine functions by inhibiting T-cell activation and reducing inflammatory cytokine production on the ocular surface, thereby increasing tear production in patients with ocular surface disease such as dry eye. Carboxymethylcellulose acts as a hydrophilic polymer for tear film stabilization and symptomatic relief of dryness. The combination is used primarily for the treatment of dry eye disease, especially in cases of underlying ocular surface inflammation. Clinical studies and practice use involve topical administration of both agents, usually cyclosporine 0.05% (Restasis, Allergan) and carboxymethylcellulose 0.5% (as in Refresh Plus or Optive, Allergan), to provide both symptomatic relief and disease modification by addressing inflammation and lubrication[1][2][3].

Brand names

Restasis + RefreshRestasis + Optive

Other names

cyclosporine + sodium carboxymethylcellulosecyclosporine + CMC-solutescyclosporine + artificial tearcyclosporine + carboxymethylcellulose sodium