Generic
Hypromellose
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Hypromellose eye drops are used for the symptomatic relief of dry eye conditions, especially due to reduced tear secretion or incomplete eyelid closure.
Description
Hypromellose is an artificial tear used to relieve dehydration of the cornea and conjunctiva due to dry eyes. It is a semisynthetic, inert and viscoelastic polymer that acts as an ophthalmic lubricant. It stabilises and thickens the precorneal tear film and prolongs tear film breakup time, promoting corneal wetting. It is available as ophthalmic solution (0.3% and 0.5%) and as ophthalmic gel enriched with Carbomer 980.
Indications
- Dry eye conditions (due to reduced tear secretion or incomplete eyelid closure)
- Dehydration of the cornea and conjunctiva
Therapeutic class
Drugs for Dry eyes
Pharmacological class
Ophthalmic Lubricant (Artificial Tears)
Pharmacology
Hypromellose is a semisynthetic, inert and viscoelastic polymer used as an ophthalmic lubricant. It stabilises and thickens the precorneal tear film and prolongs the tear film breakup time, promoting corneal wetting. It lubricates and protects the eye. The ophthalmic gel enriched with Carbomer 980 is a long-acting eye gel with slight hypotonicity that is rapidly neutralised by the slightly hypertonic tear fluid caused by dry eyes.
Mechanism of action
Stabilises and thickens the precorneal tear film and prolongs tear film breakup time to promote corneal wetting and provides eye lubrication and protection.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Ophthalmic):
- Dry eye syndrome therapy requires an individual dosage regimen
- 0.3% Hypromellose: 1 drop into conjunctival sac 3-5 times daily or as directed
- 0.5% Hypromellose: Dose varies for different patients; follow doctor's directions
- Ophthalmic Gel (with Carbomer 980): 1-2 drops as needed; average 1-3 times daily
Child Dose: Studies in pediatric population have not been performed; use as directed by physician
Administration
For external use only; use in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor; hold dropper/tube tip close to eye without touching it; place medicine inside lower eyelid; for gel, do not use more than 1 month after opening tube.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible; if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; for gel, apply when needed (no fixed schedule).
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Transient blurred vision
- Mild stinging sensation
- Eye discomfort/irritation
- Eye redness
- Tearing
- Eye sensitivity to light
- Sticky eyelashes
For gel with Carbomer: Burning, stinging, allergic reactions, red eyes
Precautions & warnings
Precautions:
- If eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness or irritation occur, discontinue use and consult doctor
- If product changes color or becomes cloudy, do not use
- For gel: Never inject subconjunctivally or introduce directly into anterior chamber of the eye
- Gel is not intended for use during surgery
Contraindications
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to this drug or any ingredient in the formulation
Drug interactions
Hypromellose can be used in combination with contact lenses; no compatibility study with lens material is available.
Food interactions
No food interaction found/established.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: No experience regarding safety in human pregnancy; consult your doctor.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: No experience regarding safety in lactation; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Studies in pediatric population have not been performed.
Geriatric use
No indication that dosage needs to be modified for the elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No specific data for renal or hepatic impairment.
Overdose effects
No information on overdose; do not exceed the recommended dose.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children; do not use gel more than 1 month after opening tube.
Chemical structure
Hypromellose