Artificial tears

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Artificial 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.

Contents

[edit] Chemistry

Preparations 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.

[edit] Effects

Application 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]

[edit] Usage

Artificial 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]

[edit] Precautions

Drops for red eyes can make the eyes even more dry.[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]

[edit] Adverse effects, interactions and contraindications

Possible 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]

Artificial tears have no reported interactions.[1] A documented contraindication of artificial tears is hypersensitivity.[1]

[edit] Veterinary uses

Artificial tears are a part of the topical therapy for keratoconjunctivitis sicca for animals such as dogs, cats and horses.[4]

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Keratoconjunctivitis, Sicca. eMedicine. WebMD, Inc. (2006-04-21). Retrieved on 2006-11-12.
  2. ^ a b c d e f Meadows, Michelle (May-June 2005). Dealing with Dry Eye. FDA Consumer Magazine. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved on 2006-11-16.
  3. ^ Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca. The Merck Manual, Home Edition. Merck & Co., Inc. (2003-02-01). Retrieved on 2006-11-12.
  4. ^ Keratoconjunctivitis, Sicca. The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Inc.. Retrieved on 2006-11-18.
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