Indications
Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (also called Hypromellose or HPMC) is used as a lubricating eye drop or eye gel to relieve dry, gritty, tired or irritated eyes. This includes dry eye syndrome, discomfort from screens, wind, air conditioning or contact lens wear, and tear deficiency linked to conditions such as Sjogren syndrome. It is also widely used as an inactive ingredient in tablets and capsules.
How It Works
Hypromellose is a thickening agent made from cellulose. In the eye it forms a smooth, clear, moisturising film that acts like natural tears: it keeps the surface of the eye wet, reduces friction when blinking and protects it from irritation. It does not treat the cause of dry eye but eases the symptoms.
Dosage and Administration
Adults and children: usually 1 to 2 drops in each affected eye 3 to 4 times a day, or more often as needed, or as directed on the label. Gels are often used less frequently, for example at bedtime.
- Wash your hands and avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye.
- Remove contact lenses before use unless the product says it is suitable for lenses.
- If using other eye drops, wait 5 to 10 minutes between them and apply this one last.
Interactions
No significant interactions are known. It may slightly slow the absorption of other eye drops if given immediately before them.
Contraindications
Allergy to hypromellose or any ingredient in the product, such as a preservative.
Side Effects
Mild, temporary blurred vision right after use (more with gels), slight stinging, and sticky eyelashes. Rarely, eye redness or allergy, sometimes due to the preservative.
Get urgent medical help if you develop eye pain, a sudden change in vision, or swelling of the eyelids or face.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Hypromellose is not absorbed into the body in meaningful amounts, so it is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Do not drive until any blurred vision has cleared.
- See a doctor if your eyes become painful, very red, sensitive to light, or if symptoms do not improve after a few days.
- Do not share the bottle, and do not use if the solution looks cloudy.
Overdose
Using extra drops is not harmful. Accidental swallowing is unlikely to cause problems beyond mild stomach upset.
Therapeutic Class
Ocular lubricant (artificial tears).
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from light, with the cap tightly closed and out of the reach of children. Discard 4 weeks after opening, or as stated on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.