Artificial tears

Artificial tears are lubricant eye drops used to treat the dryness and irritation associated with deficient tear production in (dry eyes). They are also used to moisten contact lenses and in eye examinations.

Artificial tears are available over-the-counter. Artificial tears are supplemented with other treatments in moderate to severe forms of dry eyes.

Preparations contain carboxymethyl cellulose,polyvinyl alcohol,hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (a.k.a. HPMC or hypromellose), hydroxypropyl cellulose and hyaluronic acid (a.k.a. hyaluronan, HA) They contain water, salts and polymers but lack the proteins found in natural tears. Patients who use them more frequently than once every three hours should choose a brand without preservatives or one with non-irritating preservatives.

Application of artificial tears every few hours can provide temporary relief from the symptoms of dry eyes. Hydroxypropyl cellulose stabilizes and thickens the precorneal tear film and prolongs the tear film breakup time.

Artificial tears usually are the first line of treatment for dry eyes. While mild cases require application of lubricant drops four times a day, severe cases require more aggressive treatment, such as ten to twelve times a day. Thicker artificial tears can be used in severe cases, although these may temporarily blur vision.

Drops for red eyes can make the eyes drier. If wearing contact lenses, rewetting or lubricating drops specifically for contact lenses should be used. Other types of drops may contain ingredients that damage contact lenses.

Possible adverse effects of carboxymethyl cellulose and similar lubricants include eye pain, irritation, continued redness, and vision changes. Use should be discontinued if any of them occur. Side effects of hydroxypropyl cellulose include hyperaemia, photophobia, stickiness of eyelashes, discomfort, and irritation. However, the overall side-effect profile of artificial tears is very low.

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