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Artificial tearsArtificial tears are lubricant eye drops used to treat the dryness and irritation associated with deficient tear production in keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eyes).[1] 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. Additional recommended knowledge
ChemistryPreparations contain carboxymethyl cellulose,[1][2] hydroxypropyl methylcellulose[2] (a.k.a. HPMC or hypromellose), and hydroxypropyl cellulose[1]. 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[1] should choose a brand without preservatives[1] or one with special non-irritating preservatives. EffectsApplication of artificial tears every few hours[3] 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.[1] UsageArtificial tears usually are the first line of treatment for dry eyes.[2] 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.[1] Thicker artificial tears can be used in severe cases, although these may temporarily blur vision.[1] An artificial tear insert such as Lacrisert which contains hydroxypropyl cellulose can also be used every morning.[1] PrecautionsDrops for red eyes can make the eyes even drier.[2] If wearing contact lenses, rewetting or lubricating drops specifically for contact lenses should be used.[2] Other types of drops may contain ingredients that damage the lens.[2] Adverse effects, interactions and contraindicationsPossible adverse effects of carboxymethyl cellulose and other similar lubricants include eye pain, irritation, continued redness, or vision changes.[1] Use should be discontinued if any of them occur.[1] Those of hydroxypropyl cellulose include hyperaemia, photophobia, stickiness of eyelashes, discomfort, and irritation.[1] Long term use of preservatives present in some artificial tears may harm the eye.[citation needed] Artificial tears have no reported interactions.[1] A documented contraindication of artificial tears is hypersensitivity.[1] Veterinary usesArtificial tears are a part of the topical therapy for keratoconjunctivitis sicca for animals such as dogs, cats and horses.[4] References
Categories: Drugs | Electrolyte disturbance | Dog health | Equine medications |
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This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Artificial_tears". A list of authors is available in Wikipedia. |