Indications
Propylene Glycol is used in lubricating eye drops and eye gels, usually together with Polyethylene Glycol 400. These are artificial tears that relieve dry eye: burning, itching, a gritty or tired feeling, and irritation caused by wind, sun, dust, air conditioning, long screen use or contact lenses.
How It Works
Propylene Glycol and Polyethylene Glycol are lubricants that hold water on the surface of the eye. They form a smooth, protective film over the eye, replacing missing tears and reducing friction when you blink. Some products also contain a thickener that turns into a gel on the eye so the effect lasts longer.
Dosage and Administration
- Eye drops: 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) as needed, commonly three or four times a day, or as advised.
- Eye gel: 1 drop as needed, often at bedtime.
- Wash hands first and do not let the tip touch the eye or any surface.
- If using other eye drops, wait 5 to 10 minutes between them and use the lubricant last.
- Remove contact lenses before use unless the product says it is suitable for lenses.
Interactions
No important interactions are expected, as very little is absorbed into the body. Leave a gap of 5 to 10 minutes between this and other eye medicines so they are not washed out.
Contraindications
Allergy to propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Usually mild: brief blurred vision, mild stinging or burning, and sticky eyelids or eyelashes.
Stop using and see a doctor urgently if you have eye pain, changes in vision, redness or irritation that keeps getting worse or lasts more than 3 days, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the eyelids or face.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Very little reaches the bloodstream, so it is not expected to harm the baby. It can generally be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Vision may blur briefly after use; wait until it clears before driving.
- Do not share eye drops.
- Discard the bottle after the period stated on the label once opened (often 28 days). Single-dose vials are used once and thrown away.
- Do not use if the solution changes colour or becomes cloudy.
Overdose
Using extra drops is not harmful; the excess simply runs out of the eye. If a child swallows the contents, it is unlikely to cause serious harm, but ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Therapeutic Class
Ocular lubricant (artificial tears).
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from light, with the cap tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.