Ophthalmic saline / rewetting drops (for lens wear)
Dry eye · OTC
Trade namesBlink Contacts, Refresh Contacts, Sensitive Eyes, Opti-Free Puremoist rewetting
Drug classContact-lens rewetting / lubricant drop
StrengthIsotonic buffered solutions ± demulcent
AvailabilityOTC
Mechanism of actionRehydrate and lubricate the lens surface, flush debris, and improve wettability, reducing lens awareness and end-of-day dryness.
Indication / reason for useContact-lens-related dryness and discomfort; may be instilled with lenses in place. Not a treatment for infection or for significant dry eye disease.
Usual adult dosing1-2 drops onto the lens as needed during wear.
PreservativePreservative-free or gentle preservative systems; check the label , a preservative-free option exists
Contact lensesFormulated specifically for use with soft and RGP lenses in place.
Common / important adverse effectsMinimal; transient blur.
Contraindications & cautionsDo not use multipurpose disinfecting solution as a comfort drop. If a lens wearer needs drops many times a day, evaluate for dry eye, poor lens fit or an unsuitable modality.
Pregnancy / lactationLow risk.
Practice notesPersistent need for rewetting drops is a prompt to reconsider lens material, replacement schedule (move to daily disposables) or to treat underlying MGD/DED.
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.