Cystadrops
Cystadrops is an ophthalmic solution containing cysteamine, used to treat corneal cystine crystal deposits in patients with cystinosis. This rare genetic disorder causes accumulation of cystine crystals throughout the body, including the eyes, leading to photophobia and visual disturbances. Cystadrops is applied directly to the eyes to reduce corneal crystal buildup.
Cystadrops is an eye drop medication for cystinosis patients that helps dissolve harmful cystine crystal deposits in the cornea.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2396901
- Generic
- Cystadrops
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Cystadrops is indicated for the treatment of corneal cystine crystal deposits in adults and children with cystinosis. It helps manage ocular manifestations of this rare lysosomal storage disorder that causes cystine to accumulate in various tissues including the cornea.
Cystadrops contains cysteamine bitartrate, a cystine-depleting agent. When applied topically to the eyes, it enters corneal cells and converts cystine into cysteine and cysteine-cysteamine mixed disulfides, which can then be transported out of the cells, thereby reducing the harmful crystal deposits.
Cystadrops is for ophthalmic use only. Patients should wash hands before application and avoid touching the dropper tip. Contact lenses should be removed before instillation. The medication should be refrigerated and discarded 7 days after first opening. Side effects may include eye irritation, blurred vision, and eye pain.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy