ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
Preservative-free single-use vials are best if you use them more than 4 times a day.
What it's used for
- Dry eyes
- Eye irritation from screens, wind, or contacts
How to take it
- Use 1 to 2 drops as needed.
- Gels and ointments last longer and are good at bedtime but blur vision.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Brief blurry vision
Call your provider todayEye pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes
Call your provider todayRed, painful eye in a contact lens wearer
Warnings
- Some eye drop products have been recalled for contamination; buy from trusted stores and don't share.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Wait 5 minutes between other drops.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Safe in pregnancy.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Artificial tears (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.