Yes, a generic version of Restasis is available. The FDA approved the first generic cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%, manufactured by Mylan Pharmaceuticals, on February 2, 2022. It became available in pharmacies the following day. The generic contains the same active ingredient at the same concentration as brand-name Restasis and can cost significantly less.
What the Generic Contains
Both brand-name Restasis and its generic deliver cyclosporine at a concentration of 0.05% in an ophthalmic emulsion. Cyclosporine works by calming inflammation on the surface of the eye, which helps your eyes produce more of their own tears naturally. It’s prescribed for chronic dry eye disease, specifically when reduced tear production is linked to eye inflammation.
The FDA requires generic ophthalmic products to meet strict quality standards covering everything from microbiological safety to how the drug releases from the formulation. The generic earned an “AB” rating from the FDA, meaning it is considered therapeutically equivalent to the brand name and can be substituted at the pharmacy.
Cost Difference Between Brand and Generic
Without insurance, brand-name Restasis runs roughly $639 for a 5.5 mL supply. The generic cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion costs around $265 for 30 single-use vials, a savings of about 58%. Your actual out-of-pocket cost will depend on your insurance plan and pharmacy, but the generic is consistently cheaper across the board.
If you’re on Medicare Part D, coverage for cyclosporine eye drops has been expanding. As of January 2025, cyclosporine ophthalmic products are included on formularies managed by major plan sponsors like Express Scripts, Cigna, Kaiser Permanente, and CVS Caremark, collectively covering more than 25 million Medicare Part D beneficiaries. Medicaid programs in all 50 states also cover cyclosporine eye drops, and roughly 60% of commercial insurers provide coverage as well.
How to Switch From Brand to Generic
In most states, your pharmacist can automatically substitute the generic when your prescription says “Restasis” unless your doctor has written “dispense as written.” If you want the generic, simply ask your pharmacist whether the substitution is available at your pharmacy. You won’t need a new prescription in most cases.
The generic works the same way as the brand, so you shouldn’t notice any difference in how the drops feel or perform. That said, inactive ingredients like preservatives or emulsifiers can vary slightly between manufacturers. If you have known allergies to specific inactive ingredients, ask your pharmacist for the full ingredient list before switching.
Common Side Effects
The side effects of generic cyclosporine eye drops are the same as those of brand-name Restasis. The most common ones include burning, stinging, or redness in the eyes right after you put the drops in. Some people also experience blurred vision, a feeling that something is in their eye, mild swelling of the eyelids, or eye discharge. These effects are usually temporary and tend to improve as your eyes adjust over the first few weeks of use.
Serious allergic reactions are rare but possible. Swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, hives, or difficulty breathing after using the drops require immediate medical attention.
Tips for Using Cyclosporine Eye Drops
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in. Cyclosporine eye drops are not designed to be used while contacts are in place.
Results aren’t immediate. Cyclosporine works by reducing the underlying inflammation that suppresses tear production, so most people don’t notice a meaningful improvement in dryness for four to six weeks, and full benefits can take several months. Consistency matters: using the drops twice daily as prescribed gives them the best chance of working. Many people give up too early because they expect fast relief, but the medication is addressing the root cause rather than just masking symptoms.
Other Cyclosporine Eye Drop Options
Beyond the Mylan generic of Restasis, there’s also a newer branded cyclosporine product called Vevye, which delivers cyclosporine at 0.1% in a different formulation. It’s not a generic of Restasis but rather a separate product with its own FDA approval. For most people looking to save money on the standard 0.05% formulation, the Mylan generic is the straightforward, lower-cost equivalent.