Sodium hyaluronate / hyaluronic acid
Dry eye · OTC
Trade namesBlink Tears, Oxyal, Optase HA, Hylo (PF), iVIZIA (PF)
Drug classArtificial tear, HA demulcent
Strength0.1%-0.4%
AvailabilityOTC
Mechanism of actionHigh-molecular-weight polysaccharide; water-retentive, shear-thinning film that lubricates during blink and stabilizes the tear film.
Indication / reason for useFirst-line lubricant for mild-moderate DED; good tolerability, favored for frequent dosing and post-surgical surfaces.
Usual adult dosing1 drop in affected eye(s) 2-6×/day or as needed.
PreservativeMany are preservative-free or use evaporating preservatives (Purite/PHMB) , a preservative-free option exists
Contact lensesPF HA drops are widely used as a lens rewetting agent and may be instilled with lenses in.
Common / important adverse effectsTransient blur, rare stinging.
Contraindications & cautionsNone significant.
Pregnancy / lactationLow risk.
Practice notesShear-thinning behaviour gives lubrication with less blur than gels.
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.