Tyrvaya® (Varenicline Solution) Nasal Spray

Tyrvaya® is a prescription nasal spray specifically designed to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED). Unlike traditional eye drops, Tyrvaya is administered through the nose, where it activates the trigeminal parasympathetic pathway, leading to increased production of basal tear film. This innovative approach offers a new way to treat dry eye, particularly for patients with tear film instability​

How Tyrvaya Works

Tyrvaya works by stimulating the production of basal tear film through the trigeminal parasympathetic pathway. When sprayed into the nose, Tyrvaya binds to specific cholinergic receptors that signal the lacrimal glands, meibomian glands, and goblet cells to increase tear production. This results in improved tear film stability, which is crucial for treating dry eye​.

  • Unique Nasal Spray Delivery: Unlike eye drops, Tyrvaya is administered through the nasal cavity, where it stimulates natural tear production.

  • Targets Tear Film Instability: By increasing basal tear film, Tyrvaya helps to restore tear film homeostasis, reducing the discomfort associated with dry eye disease.

Conditions Treated with Tyrvaya

Tyrvaya is indicated for the treatment of dry eye disease (DED), particularly in patients who have tear film instability or who are not responding to traditional eye drops. Visit our Dry Eye Syndrome page for more information on symptoms and other treatment options.

How to Use Tyrvaya

To use Tyrvaya effectively, spray once in each nostril twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart)​. Be sure to follow these steps:

  1. Prime the Bottle: Before first use, prime the bottle by pumping seven sprays into the air. If the bottle has not been used for more than five days, re-prime with one spray.

  2. Administer the Spray: Insert the nasal applicator into one nostril and spray while gently breathing in. Repeat for the other nostril.

  3. Wipe the Applicator: After each use, clean the applicator with a tissue.

Important Safety Information

  • Sneezing: The most common side effect is sneezing, reported in 82% of patients​.

  • Other Side Effects: Cough, throat irritation, and nasal irritation have also been reported in 5-16% of patients. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent reactions​.

  • Contact Lenses: There is no restriction on contact lens wear with Tyrvaya since it is administered nasally.

Visit the official Tyrvaya website for more information on savings programs and product details.

Alternatives to Tyrvaya®

While Tyrvaya® is a unique treatment for dry eye disease, other options may be suitable depending on the cause of your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend one of the following alternatives:

  • Cequa®: A cyclosporine-based eye drop that targets inflammation to increase tear production. Cequa works by reducing inflammation at the source of chronic dry eye. Learn more about Cequa here.

  • Restasis®: Another cyclosporine-based eye drop, Restasis is designed to gradually increase natural tear production by reducing eye inflammation over several months. Learn more about Restasis here.

  • Xiidra®: Xiidra works by blocking a protein interaction that causes inflammation, providing symptom relief from dry eye. Learn more about Xiidra here.

Visit our Dry Eye Syndrome page to explore more options for managing dry eye disease.