Mineral oil / light mineral oil emulsion
Dry eye · OTC
Trade namesRefresh Optive Mega-3, Systane Balance, Soothe XP, Retaine MGD
Drug classArtificial tear, lipid / emulsion
Strength0.5%-1% oil phase
AvailabilityOTC
Mechanism of actionAnionic or cationic oil-in-water emulsion restoring the tear-film lipid layer; reduces evaporation.
Indication / reason for useEvaporative DED and meibomian gland dysfunction; lid-margin disease.
Usual adult dosing1-2 drops 2-4×/day; shake before use.
PreservativeOften PF or Purite; Retaine MGD is PF cationic emulsion , a preservative-free option exists
Contact lensesLipid emulsions coat lenses, instill with lenses out; PF forms only if labelled for lens use.
Common / important adverse effectsBlur, greasy sensation, lid stickiness.
Contraindications & cautionsNone significant.
Pregnancy / lactationLow risk.
Practice notesPair with warm compresses / lid hygiene for MGD.
Chair-side reference only. Dosing, contraindications and pregnancy guidance here are not exhaustive. Confirm against the current prescribing information and the patient’s full history before prescribing or advising.