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Review
. 2025 Jan 1;36(1):76-82.
doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000001109. Epub 2024 Nov 8.

A comprehensive update on over the counter artificial tears

Lilla Simon  1 , Brian A Murillo, Alfonso L Sabater
Affiliations
Review

A comprehensive update on over the counter artificial tears

Lilla Simon et al. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Artificial tears play a critical role in the management of dry eye disease (DED), providing patient symptomatic relief and improving ocular surface health. Its clinical importance has driven pharmaceutical innovation in terms of its formula and ingredients. The following article is an overview of the artificial tear products on the market.

Recent findings: The artificial tears on the market vary in terms of their active ingredients, inactive ingredients, preservatives, and formulation. The particular chemical composition of ingredients and formulation plays a clinical role in treating ocular pathology. Conversely, certain ingredients can cause more ocular damage than other ingredients.

Summary: Upon review of the artificial tears on the market, the authors conclude that clinicians should consider the products' composition when designating a treatment for DED. Different artificial tear composition may benefit specific causes of DED such as evaporative, aqueous-deficient, glaucoma, ocular surface tumors, corneal ulcers, and viral conjunctivitis.

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