Tyrvaya (varenicline) is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for dry eye disease in adults. Tyrvaya comes as a nasal spray that’s typically used twice per day.

Tyrvaya belongs to a drug class called partial nicotinic receptor agonists. Tyrvaya is not available in a generic version.

Keep reading for specific information about the dosage of Tyrvaya, including its strength and how to use the medication. For a comprehensive look at Tyrvaya, see this article.

Note: This article describes typical dosages for Tyrvaya provided by the drug’s manufacturer. When using Tyrvaya, always follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Below is information about Tyrvaya’s form, strength, and dosage.

Tyrvaya form

Tyrvaya comes as a nasal spray. Each package contains two nasal spray bottles for a 30-day supply of the medication.

Tyrvaya strength

Each spray of Tyrvaya contains 0.03 milligrams (mg) of the drug in 0.05 milliliters (mL) of solution.

Typical dosages

The following information describes dosages that are commonly prescribed or recommended in adults. However, be sure to use the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for dry eye disease

Doctors may prescribe Tyrvaya to treat the symptoms of dry eye disease.

If your doctor prescribes Tyrvaya for dry eye disease, your dosage will be one spray in each nostril. You’ll use this twice per day. Your doses should be used 12 hours apart.

For more information about your specific dosage, talk with your doctor.

Long-term treatment

Tyrvaya is meant to be used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Tyrvaya is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely use it long term.

Before you start using Tyrvaya, your doctor will discuss your treatment plan with you.

Tyrvaya comes as a nasal spray.

Before you use your first dose, you’ll need to prime Tyrvaya by pumping seven sprays into the air away from your face. If you don’t use Tyrvaya for more than 5 days, you’ll need to re-prime it by spraying it once into the air.

When you’re ready to use Tyrvaya, take the following steps:

  1. Blow your nose gently, if needed.
  2. Tilt your head back slightly and insert the nasal applicator into one nostril, pointing it toward the ear on that side.
  3. Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth and gently breathe while pressing the bottle to spray once.
  4. Repeat for the other nostril.
  5. When finished, wipe the nasal applicator with a clean tissue.

If you have questions about how to use Tyrvaya, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. There are also step-by-step instructions and a helpful video on the manufacturer’s website.

ACCESSIBLE DRUG LABELS

Some pharmacies offer labels with large print, braille, or a code you scan with a smartphone to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn’t have these options, your doctor or pharmacist might be able to recommend a pharmacy that does.

If you miss a dose of Tyrvaya, skip the missed dose and use your next scheduled dose. Do not use two doses to make up for the missed one. If you’re unsure whether you should use a missed dose or skip it, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or putting a note where you’ll see it, such as on your bathroom mirror or bedside table. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.

It’s important that you don’t use more Tyrvaya than your doctor prescribes. For some medications, using more than the recommended amount may lead to harmful effects or overdose.

If you use more than the recommended amount of Tyrvaya

Call your doctor right away if you believe you’ve used too much Tyrvaya. Another option is to call America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. If you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room.

Below are some frequently asked questions about Tyrvaya.

How long does it take for Tyrvaya to start working?

Tyrvaya starts to work after your first dose. It may take 1–4 weeks to notice a reduction in your dry eye symptoms.

Talk with your doctor if you have questions about what to expect from Tyrvaya treatment.

Can Tyrvaya be used for seasonal allergies? If so, what’s the dosage?

No, Tyrvaya is not used for seasonal allergies. It’s approved for adults to treat the symptoms of dry eye disease, such as burning and pain.

Because Tyrvaya isn’t used for seasonal allergies, the manufacturer doesn’t provide recommended dosages for this use.

However, azelastine (Astepro) is a nasal spray that’s approved for nasal allergy symptoms. If you have questions about managing seasonal allergies, talk with your doctor. They can recommend treatment options for this condition.

The dosages in this article are typical dosages provided by the drug’s manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Tyrvaya for you, they will prescribe the dosage that’s right for you. Always follow the dosage that your doctor prescribes.

As with any drug, never change your dosage of Tyrvaya without your doctor’s recommendation. If you have questions about the dosage of Tyrvaya that’s best for you, talk with your doctor.

Besides learning about dosage, you may want other information about Tyrvaya. These additional articles might be helpful:

  • More about Tyrvaya: For information about other aspects of Tyrvaya, refer to this article.
  • Cost: If you’d like to learn about Tyrvaya and cost, see this article.
  • Details about dry eye disease: For details about dry eye disease, see our eye health hub.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.