Types of artificial eye drops and notes when using

The article was professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor II Nguyen Thai Hung - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Danang International Hospital. Specialist II Nguyen Thai Hung has 13 years of experience as a doctor treating eye diseases.

Artificial tears are an ideal replacement for natural tears that work to minimize problems caused by lack of tears. Currently, the most commonly used artificial tears are Refresh tears, Optive, Sanlein, Systane...

1.1 Optive – artificial tears from the US Optive is an artificial tear drop product manufactured by Allergan Sales LLC., USA. The main ingredients of Optive include Carboxymethylcellulose sodium 0.5% and Glycerin 0.9%.
Optive eye drops are indicated in case of dry eyes, to relieve dry and itchy eyes after eye surgery.
1.2 Refresh Tears Lubricant Eye Drops Refresh Tears Lubricant is manufactured by Allergan company. The main ingredient of this eye drops is to soothe the eyes before the symptoms of irritation, burning, discomfort... caused by exposure to allergens, wind, sunlight or dry eyes.
In addition, Refresh Tears Lubricant is also used as a kind of eye protectant, against attack from external stimuli.
1.3 Sanlein – Japanese artificial eye drops Sanlein is an eye drop manufactured by the company Santen, Japan. The main ingredients of the product include Sodium Hyaluronate, Aminocaproic Acid, Disodium Edetate, Benzalkonium Cl... with the effect of supportive treatment of problems of corneal - conjunctival epithelial disorders caused by diseases: Steven-Johnson syndrome, Sicca syndrome (dry eye), due to drugs, surgery or trauma, wearing contact lenses...

1.4 Systane Ultra Systane Ultra is an eye drop produced by the multinational pharmaceutical company Alcon with the same effect as Sanlein, Refresh.
The main ingredients of Systane Ultra are Polyethylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol. These are two types of hydrogels with properties that increase adhesion and increase mucus in the surface of the eyeball. Along with that, these ingredients will attract water, maintaining the moisture of the eyes, thereby alleviating the symptoms of irritation and discomfort caused by dry eyes.
1.5 Poly Tears Drop – artificial eye drops from Switzerland Alcon Poly-Tears Drop is a product manufactured by Alcon Pharmaceuticals, Switzerland. The main use of this product is to support the treatment of dry eye syndromes - decreased tear secretion as well as some other instability in tears.
Ingredients of Poly-Tears Drop include Dextran 70 0.1% and Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 0.3%.

2.1 When should artificial tears be used? Artificial tears are often used in cases of dry eyes due to deficiency or instability in tear composition as well as poor interaction between the cell membrane and the mucous layer. Usually, eye drops are recommended when:
Dry eye pain, burning. There is a foreign body in the eye, itchy eyes. Blurred vision, light sensitivity... 2.2 Objects that need to use artificial tears Office workers, elderly people, women in perimenopause and menopause, contact lens users, after surgery art... are subjects at high risk of dry eyes, which is also the group likely to have to use artificial tears.
2.3 How is it safe to use artificial tears? Dosage and effectiveness of artificial eye drops depend on the type of eye disease, its cause, and the individual patient's response to treatment.
During use, absolutely do not let the small tip touch contaminated surfaces and do not touch the small tip with your hands. Close the lid immediately after use.
In general, artificial tears are highly safe and have very few side effects. Some of the side effects that may be encountered when using these products are eyelid itching, irritation, eyelid inflammation, eyelid adhesion... which is mainly caused by ingredients with preservatives or topical agents. slippery... If the above condition persists for more than 72 hours, the patient should consult a doctor before continuing.

On average, use 4 times a day, 1-2 drops each time. In severe dry eye conditions, your doctor may instruct you to use eye drops 10 to 12 times per day. Do not use with other eye drops. If necessary, each eye drop should be spaced about 15 to 30 minutes apart. Store artificial tears at room temperature, from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. If the eye drops are discolored, cloudy... need to change immediately. Do not abuse eye drops. Artificial eye drops are an effective support product in overcoming uncomfortable symptoms in the eyes. However, it is necessary to choose a product with a high reputation and follow the instructions of the doctor to ensure safety.