Optrex Hayfever Relief 2% w/v Eye Drops 10ml

Optrex Hayfever Relief is a sodium cromoglicate (色甘酸钠) 2% w/v eye drop, used to relieve and help prevent the eye symptoms of hay fever — itching, redness, soreness and watering — in adults and children aged 6 and over, supplied by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults and children aged 6 and over whose main hay fever symptoms are itchy, watery eyes
• People with allergic conjunctivitis from pollen, dust or pet allergens
• People who want eye-specific relief alongside a nasal spray or antihistamine tablet
• People prepared to use the drops regularly through the pollen season for the best effect

Not suitable for: children under 6; anyone sensitive to sodium cromoglicate or any ingredient. Contains benzalkonium chloride, which can irritate eyes and affect soft contact lenses. Speak to your pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to use

1. Read the leaflet before use and wash your hands. Remove soft contact lenses first.
2. Adults and children aged 6 and over: put 1 to 2 drops in each eye, up to 4 times a day.
3. Use regularly for the best effect, as mast cell stabilisers work over time rather than instantly.
4. Wait at least 15 minutes before putting soft contact lenses back in.
5. If there is no improvement after 2 days, or you need to use the drops for more than 14 days, seek medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

How do Optrex Hayfever eye drops work?

They contain sodium cromoglicate, a mast cell stabiliser that helps stop the eyes releasing the histamine that causes allergy symptoms. They work best when used regularly throughout the pollen season.

How quickly do the drops work?

Because sodium cromoglicate prevents allergic reactions rather than reversing them instantly, it works gradually. If there is no improvement after 2 days, seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor.

Can I wear contact lenses with Optrex Hayfever drops?

Remove soft contact lenses before using the drops, as they contain benzalkonium chloride, which can affect lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes before putting your lenses back in.

Can children use Optrex Hayfever eye drops?

They are for adults and children aged 6 and over. For younger children, speak to your pharmacist or doctor before use.

How long can I use Optrex Hayfever eye drops for?

Use them through the pollen season, but if you need them for more than 14 days, seek medical advice. Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening.

Safety and storage

• Always read the leaflet before use, as manufacturers update it regularly.
• Do not use if you are sensitive to any ingredient.
• The drops may cause temporary blurred vision; do not drive or use machinery until your sight is clear.
• Speak to your pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Discard 28 days after first opening, keep out of the sight and reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date.

References

• NHS — Hay fever
• NHS — Allergic conjunctivitis
• Sodium cromoglicate eye drops Patient Information Leaflet via emc

This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter eye allergy medicine. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure whether these drops are right for you, or your symptoms persist, speak to a pharmacist. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.