Hypromellose 0.3% Eye Drops 10mL (brand may vary)

Hypromellose 0.3% Eye Drops is a lubricating "artificial tears" eye drop containing hypromellose (羟丙甲纤维素), used to relieve dry, gritty, tired and irritated eyes, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• People with everyday dry, gritty or tired eyes from screen use or long days
• People whose eyes feel irritated by wind, dust, pollution, heating or air conditioning
• People who want a simple, low-cost lubricant drop for regular use
• People looking for a basic "artificial tears" option before stepping up to sodium hyaluronate drops

Not suitable for: anyone allergic to an ingredient. These are not for eye infections, injuries or eye pain. Many hypromellose drops contain a preservative; if you wear contact lenses or use drops very often, ask your pharmacist about a preservative-free option.

How to use

1. Read the leaflet and wash your hands before use.
2. Tilt your head back, gently pull down the lower eyelid and look up.
3. Squeeze 1-2 drops into each eye.
4. Blink a few times to spread the drops, then replace the cap.
5. Use as often as needed; if you wear soft lenses with a preserved drop, leave them out and wait 15 minutes before reinserting.

Frequently asked questions

What are hypromellose eye drops used for?

They are artificial tears that lubricate the eye surface to relieve dryness, grittiness and tiredness. They add moisture and comfort but do not treat infection or allergy.

How often can I use hypromellose drops?

You can use 1-2 drops in each eye as often as needed for dry eyes. If you find you need them very frequently or symptoms persist, see your pharmacist or an optometrist.

Can I use hypromellose drops with contact lenses?

Many hypromellose drops contain a preservative that is not ideal for soft lenses, so remove lenses first and wait 15 minutes before reinserting, or ask your pharmacist for a preservative-free option.

What is the difference between hypromellose and sodium hyaluronate drops?

Both lubricate the eye. Hypromellose is a basic, economical artificial tear, while sodium hyaluronate drops (such as Hycosan) tend to stay on the eye longer and are often preferred for more persistent dry eye.

How long can I keep the bottle after opening?

Discard the bottle after the in-use period stated in the leaflet, usually 28 days after first opening, and never use it past the printed expiry date.

Safety and storage

• Always read the leaflet before use, as manufacturers update it regularly and the brand may vary.
• Stop using and seek advice if you get irritation or an allergic reaction.
• Store as directed on the pack; do not use after the printed expiry date.
• Discard after the stated in-use period and keep out of the sight and reach of children.

References

• NHS — Dry eyes
• Hypromellose eye drops Patient Information Leaflet via emc

This page provides factual information about a lubricant eye drop. Brand supplied may vary. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If your eyes are painful, very red, or your vision changes, see an optometrist or doctor.