restasis
Hi Dr. Houser, Do you think that the prescription drops Restasis, that are used to treat chronic dry-eye, could have value as an off-label-use as nose drops for rhinitis sicca? Restasis claims proof of increased natural tear production, so any chance it could increase nasal mucus production too? Thanks!

Restasis suppresses inflammation (cyclosporin) in the eye which is producing dryness; the number of lacrimal cells are the same, but they are inhibited to produce tears with rhinitis sicca we assume it is an overall reduction of secretory cells s/p turb reduction still though, I think you may be on to something - a very reasonable medication to try as perhaps inflammation is a bigger component than we know eye drops are very small volume, while nasal spray is a large volume - significant cost issue could occur; perhaps could be obtained cheaper over the internet for a trial?

Dr. Houser, One of the "younger" allergists who I told all about ENS and who believed me, recently approached me while I was in the office getting an allergy shot and said to try taking Ocean Spray and mixing it up with lubricating Visine and then put it in my nose. He said he's had other patients with dry nose after sinus surgery and that it has worked for them. I haven't tried it but who knows it's worth a try. Julie

Sounds very reasonable to try. There are many Visine products out there, correct?