Tyrvaya Nasal Spray: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Tyrvaya Nasal Spray (varenicline solution) is a prescription nasal spray used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in adults. It belongs to the cholinergic agonist drug class and works by activating nerves inside the nose to help the eyes make more of their own natural tears. It is sprayed into each nostril twice daily and is not for use in the eyes.

What is Tyrvaya Nasal Spray

Tyrvaya is a prescription nasal spray used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. It works by activating nerves inside the nose to help your eyes make more of their own natural tears.

Tyrvaya Nasal Spray uses

• Treats the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in adults

Benefits of Tyrvaya Nasal Spray

• Increases natural tear production to relieve dry eye symptoms
• In clinical studies, improved tear film production and dry eye symptoms compared to placebo after 4 weeks of use
• May start increasing tear production as early as the first week of use

How Tyrvaya Nasal Spray works

Tyrvaya works by stimulating a nerve pathway inside the nose that controls natural tear production. It attaches to certain nerve receptors in the nose, which switches on a nerve pathway connected to the tear glands, causing the eyes to make more of their own natural tears.

Tyrvaya Nasal Spray dosage

Use the nasal spray exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to. Do not shake the bottles. Spray one time in each nostril, two times daily, about 12 hours apart.

Before first use, prime the bottle by pressing and releasing the nasal applicator 7 times, spraying away from your face. If you have not used the spray for more than 5 days, reprime it with 1 spray before your next dose. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils before using the spray, if needed.

Tilt your head back slightly without lying down, then insert the applicator into the nostril and point it toward the top of the ear on that side. Do not press the tip of the applicator against the inside wall of your nose; leave a small gap. Breathe in gently while pressing the applicator to release the spray. Wipe the applicator with a clean tissue and replace the cap and clip after each use.

A one-month supply comes as two bottles; finish the first bottle before opening the second. If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time; do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

No differences in safety or effectiveness have been seen between elderly and younger adult patients. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children under 18 years old.

Available forms and strengths

• Nasal spray

Side effects of Tyrvaya Nasal Spray

Common

• Sneezing
• Cough
• Throat irritation
• Nose (nasal passage) irritation

Serious

• Allergic reaction (may include mild symptoms like rash, or severe symptoms like swelling or trouble breathing)
• Nasal irritation
• Nasal discomfort
• Runny or stuffy nose

Warnings and precautions

• Tyrvaya has no known conditions that would prevent a doctor from prescribing it, but tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take before starting treatment. Do not use Tyrvaya for any condition other than the one it was prescribed for, and do not share it with other people even if they have similar symptoms, since it may harm them.
• For nasal use only; do not swallow or use in the eyes. Do not shake the bottle before use. Avoid touching the nasal spray tip to your nose or other surfaces to prevent contamination.
• Tell your doctor if you have a history of nasal problems, irritation, or nosebleeds.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether Tyrvaya could harm an unborn baby.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if Tyrvaya passes into breast milk, so you and your provider should decide together whether to use it.
• Safety and effectiveness have not been established in patients under 18 years.

Storage

• Store at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
• Do not freeze
• Discard Tyrvaya nasal spray bottle 30 days after first use
• Keep Tyrvaya and all medicines out of the reach of children

When to see a doctor

If you have a mild allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. If you have severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, get emergency medical help right away, as these can become life-threatening. If severe nasal irritation, persistent cough, breathing difficulty, or an allergic reaction occurs, seek medical advice promptly. Call your doctor for advice about any side effects you experience, including ones not listed here.

Alternatives

• Restasis
• Xiidra
• Eysuvis