Has anyone out there tried restasis for dry eye. I just started and am very hopeful. It comes in vials and the directions say to throw the vial away after opening but there is enough for a second application.

My Dr. said I can use the same vial each day. so I put drops in am and save the vial for my pm drops. It is very expensive otherwise! It has improved my vision or so my optometrist says, I just take their word for it--since my corneas constantly bother me anyway.

I've been on Restasis for quite awhile now. Over a year. I seem to have more tears.

You can apparently keep the vial for two uses and then throw it away. I wouldn't keep it for any longer than that though. Don't want to risk getting bacteria in it. Make sure you don't touch the tip to anything. If you do, I would definitely throw it away and start fresh the next time.

It can take quite awhile before any improvement so be patient. Can take up to six months for optimal benefits.

Good luck! Hope it gives you some relief!

I've been taking Restasis for about two weeks (since 1/25/05) and haven't noticed any changes. My eye surgeries did not go well, so I'm being fitted for special contacts. However, my eyes appear to be too dry for contacts so my doctor put me on Restasis. He also wanted to plug my tear ducts, but I suggested we try the drops alone for now.

Calibug, who told you that optimal results could take 6 months? Sounds like a long time!

I also use restasis for about 6 weeks now... I also have plugs in my eyes now and I do notice that it is helping...the doc said I have to use the restasis for a at least 6 months and that it could take that long to make a difference.

As for reusing the same vial... my doctor also said I could use one vial twice in one day. Use it in the AM put it in a zip lock bag so it dosn't touch anything etc. then use it in the PM then toss the rest of it away!

Good luck to you!

The six months comes from schrimner's (sp?) results from the studies they did on the restasis. They continued to see tear improvement all the way up to six months. I think you can find the study on the web.

Take care & good luck!