Artificial tears are lubricating eye drops used to relieve dryness and irritation of the ocular surface. Dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a common ocular surface disorder and is characterized by disruption of the tear film and increased inflammation.

The tear film coats the surface of the eye and is composed of 3 layers: an aqueous, lipid, and mucous layer. The aqueous layer consists of a mixture of electrolytes, enzymes, antibodies, antimicrobial proteins, and other compounds. Artificial tears can be supplemented with other treatments to treat dry eye syndrome and are available over the counter. Moreover, artificial tears often contain chemicals that are not present in naturally-produced tears. polyvinyl alcohol,

With preservatives

Preparations can also contain preservatives in order to prolong usage and avoid bacterial contamination. sodium perborate, Desensitization can occur with extended usage of drops containing tetrahydrozoline. Risk factors for developing dry eyes includes increasing age, female gender, environments with low moisture, nutritional deficiencies, certain medications, and autoimmune conditions. Examples autoimmune conditions are Sjogren's syndrome, autoimmune thyroid disease, and uveitis. Patients with dry eyes may have an inability to produce adequate amount or quality of tears leading to a disruption in their tear film. In addition, those who wear contact lenses or have undergone eye surgeries such as LASIK are at increased risk of having dry eyes. Without adequate lubrication, patients are at risk for infection as well as irreversible scarring and damage. Most artificial tears do not require a prescription and can be used as often as needed. Patients who use artificial tears more frequently than four to six times a day should choose a brand without preservatives or one with non-irritating preservatives. Thicker artificial tears that come in the form of gel or ointments may be used in more severe cases as they last longer, although they may temporarily blur vision.

Side effects and precautions

Artificial tears have no reported interactions. Proper technique should be conducted to avoid contaminating the bottle. Washing hands prior to use and avoiding contact between the bottle and eyes can prevent infections. Similarly to human use, proper care should be performed to avoid contamination of the bottle. A veterinarian should be contacted if any signs of allergy, irritation, or pain develop due to the usage of artificial tears.

2023 recall

On February 2, 2023, Global Pharma Healthcare issued a recall on artificial tears eye drops distributed by EzriCare and Delsam Pharma after reports of bacterial contamination. A multi-state cluster of Verona Integron-mediated Metallo-β-lactamase (VIM)- and Guiana-Extended Spectrum-β-Lactamase (GES)- producing carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (VIM-GES-CRPA) infections from the contaminated eye drops has led to reports of eye infections, permanent loss of vision, and one death.

See also

  • Sjögren's syndrome

References

  • Use of preservatives in artificial tears