IKERVIS 1 mg/mL Eye Drops: SPC Guide
Quick summary: IKERVIS 1 mg/mL eye drops, emulsion contains ciclosporin and is used for severe keratitis in adults with dry eye disease that has not improved with tear substitutes. This page summarises the SPC-style...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary: IKERVIS 1 mg/mL eye drops, emulsion contains ciclosporin and is used for severe keratitis in adults with dry eye disease that has not improved with tear substitutes.
This page summarises the SPC-style information in a clear format. Always check the official patient leaflet or speak with a healthcare professional for advice about your own treatment.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace the official product information, a pharmacist’s advice, or guidance from your eye specialist. It does not diagnose conditions or tell you how to use a medicine for your individual situation.
What is IKERVIS 1 mg/mL eye drops, emulsion?
IKERVIS is a prescription-only eye drop emulsion containing 1 mg/mL ciclosporin. It is used in adults for the treatment of severe keratitis in dry eye disease when tear substitutes have not been enough.
The product is manufactured by Santen UK Limited. As an eye drop emulsion, it is designed for use in the eye and should be used exactly as directed in the official product information.
What is IKERVIS used for?
IKERVIS is used for severe keratitis linked to dry eye disease. The original content notes that it is intended for people whose symptoms have not responded to conventional tear substitutes.
If you are unsure whether this medicine matches your diagnosis, the safest next step is to check the official leaflet or ask an eye specialist or pharmacist.
How is IKERVIS used?
The original content states that the recommended dose is one drop in the affected eye(s) at bedtime. Follow the instructions given by your prescriber and the official leaflet.
General administration points mentioned in the source content include:
- washing your hands before use
- using the single-dose container as directed
- avoiding contact between the dropper tip and the eye or any surface
- removing contact lenses before application
If you are also using other eye medicines, ask a healthcare professional how to space them correctly.
How to apply the eye drops safely
- Wash your hands.
- Open the single-dose container as instructed.
- Tilt your head back and gently pull down the lower eyelid.
- Place one drop into the pocket of the eye.
- Close your eye gently after application.
- Do not touch the dropper tip to your eye, fingers, or any surface.
Use the product only as directed in the official instructions supplied with it.
What should you know before using IKERVIS?
Before using IKERVIS, the source content highlights the importance of telling your healthcare provider about:
- any allergy to ciclosporin or other medicines
- your full eye and medical history
- pregnancy or breastfeeding
- other eye medicines you are using
The original content also notes that people with a history of ocular herpes or those who wear contact lenses should use caution and follow professional advice.
What are the side effects of IKERVIS?
The source content lists the following side effects:
- eye pain or discomfort
- irritation when the drops are applied
- redness of the eye
- visual disturbances
These effects may be mild and may lessen over time, but persistent or severe symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Is IKERVIS safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The original content says there is limited information about use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Because of that, medical advice is important before use in these situations.
A clinician can help weigh the available information and review whether another option is more suitable for your circumstances.
Alternatives mentioned in the original content
The source content lists several possible alternatives or supportive options, depending on the severity of the condition:
- artificial tears and lubricating eye drops
- other prescription medicines for inflammation
- ocular inserts
- therapeutic contact lenses
Which option is appropriate depends on the underlying eye condition and the advice of a qualified clinician.
Frequently asked questions
▸ What are IKERVIS eye drops used for?
IKERVIS eye drops are used for severe keratitis in adults with dry eye disease when tear substitutes have not been enough.
▸ How is IKERVIS usually used?
The original content states that it is used as one drop in the affected eye(s) at bedtime, following the official instructions and prescriber advice.
▸ What side effects are listed for IKERVIS?
The listed side effects include eye pain or discomfort, irritation, redness, and visual disturbances.
▸ Can contact lens wearers use IKERVIS?
The source content says contact lenses should be removed before application. If you wear lenses, follow the official leaflet and ask a healthcare professional for advice.
▸ Is IKERVIS suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The original content says information is limited, so medical advice is recommended before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Safety reminder: If eye pain, redness, swelling, or vision changes are severe, persistent, or worrying, seek prompt medical advice. Always follow the official leaflet and your eye specialist’s instructions.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (emc) – IKERVIS 1 mg/mL eye drops, emulsion
- Santen UK Limited – Product information for IKERVIS
- NHS – Dry eyes
- NHS – Medicines information and side effects
To improve this article with specific references, add a custom field named _aio_sources in the post editor and write one source per line using: Source title|Source URL.
Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.