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Verkazia Information

Verkazia (Cyclosporine) is used to treat severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis in both children (aged 4 and older) and adults. The active ingredient is cyclosporine, formulated as a 0.1% ophthalmic emulsion. It belongs to the calcineurin inhibitor class of immunosuppressant drugs. Cyclosporine works by suppressing T-lymphocyte activation, thereby reducing inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is a chronic allergic inflammation of the eye that typically affects children and young men, often appearing seasonally. It’s significantly more aggressive than standard seasonal allergies and usually presents with intense itching and thick mucoid discharge. The disease involves a complex Th2-mediated immune response in which T cells and eosinophils cause persistent damage to the eye's surface. Verkazia helps by providing a localized calm to the overactive immune environment in the eyes without the use of steroids. Reducing T-cell activity limits the recruitment of other inflammatory cells, such as eosinophils, to the cornea. This is particularly useful for preventing the formation of corneal ulcers or painful open sores that, if the inflammation isn't kept in check, can lead to permanent scarring and vision loss. It appears to offer a long-term management option that avoids some of the pressure-related side effects often seen with chronic ocular steroid use.

Verkazia Side Effects

This medication is generally well tolerated, but it can cause mild local irritation, such as burning, redness, itching, dryness, tearing, or stinging in the eye. Other possible side effects include cold symptoms (e.g., runny nose, sore throat), cough, ear pain, eye pain, headache, and increased tearing or sensation of something in your eye. Contact your doctor if these side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Reduced vision

Also, inform your doctor if you notice any other side effects not listed here.

Verkazia Precautions

Do not use this topical eye medication if you are allergic to cyclosporine, other ingredients of Verkazia, or any other medicine. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor of any medical conditions, including eye infections or other eye conditions. If you're using this for a long time (more than a year), you’ll likely need an eye exam every 3 to 6 months. This is just to make sure the medicine isn't affecting your eye's natural ability to fight off infections. It’s very common to have blurry vision or stinging immediately after putting the drops in. Don’t drive or operate any machinery until your vision is completely clear. Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medication. It is generally recommended to avoid Verkazia during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless your doctor decides the benefit is much higher than the risk. If you can get pregnant, most guidelines suggest using effective birth control while on the medication. This medication is not recommended for use in children younger than 4 years.

Using Verkazia at the same time as steroid eye drops might increase your risk of getting an eye infection. Therefore, it is imperative to let your doctor know about any medicines or supplements you are currently using, including other eye medications, to determine whether they can interact with Verkazia. If you use other eye drops, wait at least 15 minutes between them and Verkazia. This medication comes in single-dose, preservative-free vials. Each container is intended for single use. Apply one drop to each eye as directed, usually four times daily (morning, noon, afternoon, and evening). Check out the leaflets that come with the medication for more usage instructions. Store the unopened single-dose containers at room temperature away from light. Discard the opened single-dose container immediately after use.

Do I need a prescription to order Verkazia?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Verkazia.