Artificial tears gel is an ocular lubricant for alleviating eye irritations and dry eye syndrome. In this in-depth guide for patients, we will cover all you need to know about the medicament and its purpose. Read this article to learn more about the definition, composition, benefits, usage instructions, potential side effects, and considerations when using the gel.
Table of Content
6.1. Contact lens wearers
The Role of Ocular Lubricants in Managing Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition occurring due to insufficient lubrication and lack of moisture on the ocular surface. The dry eye manifestations include redness, stinging, itching, blurred vision, and discomfort.
Artificial tears in the form of drops or gel are two relatively safe and popular choices for managing the symptoms, as they provide long-term lubrication to the eyes.
While artificial tears drops are the more popular option, we are here to tell you that artificial tears gel works just as well, if not better!
How Artificial Tears Gel Works?
Artificial tears gel works by supplementing the natural tear film and improving the lubrication of the eye surface. It typically contains a combination of active ingredients. For instance, lubricants (e.g., polyethylene glycol), viscosity agents (e.g., carbomer), preservatives, and electrolytes.
These components work together to mimic the composition and function of natural tears. Therefore providing instant relief and comfort to irritated and dry eyes.
Benefits of Artificial Tears Gel
Some of the main advantages of using artificial tears gel are:
Instant alleviation
Extended relief
Enhanced protection
Improved visual acuity
Versatile application
Artificial tears gel has a thicker consistency in comparison to traditional eye drops. Allowing for faster and longer-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms. Consequently, it is particularly beneficial for individuals with persistent or severe eye dryness.
The gel formulation forms a protective barrier on the ocular surface. Thus, it shields the eye from environmental irritants and reduces further evaporation of tears. On top of that, by lubricating the eyes, artificial tears gels slightly enhance visual acuity.
The gel is good for use during the day or at night. Providing relief both during waking hours and before going to sleep.
RELATED: Sleep Apnea and The Risk of Dry Eye
Selecting the Right Artificial Tears Gel
Choosing the most suitable artificial tears gel depends on several factors. Including the severity of dry eye symptoms, personal preferences, and the advice of an eye care professional.
Mild cases may benefit from less viscous eye drops, while more severe dry eye cases may require thicker gels. As for the ingredients and preservatives, some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to specific substances. With that in mind, please review the product labels before purchase and consult with a healthcare professional.
You also need to pay attention to the additional features. Some gels contain specific ingredients for different purposes. For example - lubricating contact lenses or providing a cooling sensation. Consider these features according to your individual needs.
And most importantly, consult an ophthalmologist. They can recommend or prescribe the right type of artificial tears gel for your particular case.
How to Use Artificial Tears Gel?
Proper administration techniques play a crucial role in obtaining maximum benefit from artificial tears gel:
Wash your hands thoroughly
Slightly tilt your head back
Pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket
Squeeze a small amount of gel (as recommended by your eye doctor) into the lower eyelid pocket
Close your eyes gently
Blink a few times to distribute the gel evenly
Wipe off any excess gel from the eyelid or surrounding area
Don't touch the eye with the tip of the container, as this may lead to contamination.
Potential Discomforts and Side Effects
Most individuals tolerate artificial tears gel well. But in rare cases, there are some adverse reactions and minor discomforts that may occur in some patients.
Here are some of the potential side effects:
Mild stinging or burning sensation
Allergic reactions
If you feel burning or stinging after applying the gel, wait for a little bit. This discomfort may occur momentarily but should subside on its own soon after application. If it doesn't go away for a while, search for medical assistance.
Although rare, some individuals may experience an allergic response to certain artificial gel ingredients. If you develop severe itching, swelling, redness, or difficulty breathing after using the gel, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Temporary blurring of vision right after application is normal, not a side effect. The discomfort usually resolves quickly (withing 2 minutes) after the gel spreads across the eye surface.
If you are using eye tear gels before driving you should wait until your vision is clear and the blurring goes away before you initiate driving.
Precautions and Considerations
While gel tears are generally safe to use, keep in mind these precautions and considerations:
Contact lens wearers
Most artificial tears gels are compatible with contact lenses. There are some that contain specific chemicals that may be absorbed by the soft contact lenses and cause irritation or increase the chance of infection. Therefore it's essential to check with an eye care specialist to ensure compatibility and receive specific instructions for the gel application.
Medication interactions
Inform your eye doctor about any other eye medications you are using along with gel tears. That is a vital step given that certain medications may alter the effectiveness of the gel. Your ophthalmologist can guide the appropriate timing and use of multiple eye medications at once.
Pregnant or nursing women
Before using eye gel ointments during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, read the label and ask your doctor if there are any risks or precautions to take into consideration. Consulting a medical professional is the best way to ensure certain artificial tears are safe to use by pregnant women and new mothers.
Children and elderly individuals
Artificial tears variations are typically safe to use in pediatric and geriatric populations. However, it is imperative to contact an eye doctor to discuss appropriate dosing and usage instructions for safe usage and application.
Additional Tips for Effective Dry Eye Management
Along with using artificial tears gel, implementing the following practices are likely to help you manage dry eye symptoms more effectively:
Identify and avoid triggers
Maintain good eye hygiene
Make environmental modifications
Follow a balanced diet
Determine the factors that worsen your dry eye symptoms. For example, exposure to dry or windy environments, prolonged screen time, or certain medications, and take steps to minimize their impact.
Follow proper hygiene practices. Keep your eyelids and lashes clean to prevent debris and blockages.
Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air. In addition, consider wearing wrap-around sunglasses or protective eyewear to shield your eyes from harsh winds and external irritants.
Consuming foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, flaxseeds, and nuts, can support overall eye health and potentially alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is artificial tears gel better than eye drops?
Artificial tears gel and eye drops serve different purposes and can be beneficial in different situations. The choice between them depends on various factors. Including the severity of dry eye symptoms, individual preferences, and the recommendation of an eye care professional. Some patients may find one form more effective or comfortable than the other.
How often should I use artificial tears gel?
The frequency varies depending on the severity of your dry eye symptoms and the specific product you are using. Consult your eye care professional as they may provide precise application instructions, relevant to your condition. As well as guide you on the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.
Can I use artificial tears gel before or after applying other eye medications?
In most cases, it is safe to apply artificial tears gel before or after applying other eye medications, but not always. Therefore, you need to consult your eye doctor on the timing and sequence of using gel in conjunction with other eye treatments.
Can I use artificial tears gel with contact lenses?
There are certain eye gels specifically formulated for use with contact lenses. Some gels may require temporarily removing the lenses before application. While others you can apply directly while wearing the contacts. Be sure to check if your gel is compatible with contact lenses. Follow the application instructions and the eye doctor's recommendations.
Is artificial tears gel safe for individuals with allergies?
Some individuals may have specific sensitivities or intolerances to certain ingredients in artificial tears gels.
So before application, please review the product labels! You also need to talk with your ophthalmologist about any allergies or sensitivities. Only then you can be certain the gel tears you use do not contain any components which may trigger an allergic reaction.
Artificial Tears Gel Products & Brands
Here is a list of some of the widely purchased artificial tear gel products with their preservative status and other parameters:
United States of America
​Product Name | Active Ingredients | Preservatives | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
Systane Gel Drops (Alcon) | Polyethylene glycol (0.4%), propylene glycol (0.3%) | POLYQUAD | High |
TheraTears Liquid Gel (Akorn) | Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (0.25%) | ​Sodium perborate | Moderate |
Genteal Gel (Alcon) | Hypromellose (0.3%) | ​GenAqua (sodium perborate) | High |
Lacrisert (Bausch + Lomb) | Hydroxypropyl cellulose (5 mg) | preservative-free | High |
Systane Ultra Preservative-Free Vials (Alcon) | Polyethylene glycol (0.4%), propylene glycol (0.3%), hydroxypropyl guar | preservative-free | Moderate |
Optase Dry Eye Intense Drops (Scope Ophthalmics) | Sodium hyaluronate (0.4%), trehalose (3%) | preservative-free | High |
United Kingdom
Product Name | Active Ingredients | Preservatives | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
Viscotears (Alcon) | Carbomer 980 (2 mg/ml) | Cetrimide | High |
Celluvisc (Allergan) | Carmellose sodium (1%) | preservative-free | High |
Sno Tears (Martindale Pharma) | Polyvinyl alcohol (14 mg/ml) | Benzalkonium chloride | Low |
Ilube (Moorfields Pharmaceuticals) | Acetylcysteine (5%) | Benzalkonium chloride | Moderate |
Lacrilube (Allergan) | ​White soft paraffin (57.3%), liquid paraffin (42.5%), lanolin alcohols (0.2%) | preservative-free | High |
Simple Eye Ointment (Thornton & Ross) | Liquid paraffin (52.5%), yellow soft paraffin (47.5%) | preservative-free | High |
Systane Gel Drops (Alcon) | Polyethylene glycol (0.4%), propylene glycol (0.3%) | POLYQUAD | High |
Optase Dry Eye Intense Drops (Scope Ophthalmics) | Sodium hyaluronate (0.4%), trehalose (3%) | preservative-free | High |
Canada
Product Name | Active Ingredients | Preservatives | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
I-DROP® PUR GEL | 0.30% viscoadaptive hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid) | preservative-free | High |
HYLO® GEL | 0.2% sodium hyaluronate | preservative-free | High |
Thealoz Duo Gel (Thea Pharma) | Sodium hyaluronate (0.15%), trehalose (3%) | preservative-free | High |
Australia
Product Name | Active Ingredients | Preservatives | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
Systane® COMPLETE PRESERVATIVE-FREE | Propylene Glycol 0.6% | preservative-free | High |
Systane® GEL DROPS | Polyethylene Glycol 400 0.4% w/v, Propylene Glycol 0.3% | POLYQUAD | High |
Blink Intensive Tears Plus Liquid Gel | Polyethylene Glycol 400 0.25% | OcuPure (Sodium Chlorite) | High |
Germany & EU
Product Name | Active Ingredients | Preservatives | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
Siccapos Gel (URSAPHARM) | Polyacrylic acid (2 mg/ml) | Cetrimide | High |
Hylo Gel (URSAPHARM) | Sodium hyaluronate (2 mg/ml) | preservative-free | High |
Vidisic Gel (Dr. Gerhard Mann) | Carbomer 980 (2 mg/g) | Cetrimide | High |
Corneregel Gel (Bausch + Lomb) | Dexpanthenol (50 mg/g) | Cetrimide | Moderate |
Lac Ophtal Gel (Dr. Winzer Pharma) | Carbomer 980 (2 mg/g) | Cetrimide | High |
Artelac Nighttime Gel (Bausch + Lomb) | Carbomer 980 (2 mg/g) | Cetrimide | High |
Optive Gel Drops (Allergan) | Carmellose sodium (5 mg/ml), glycerin (10 mg/ml) | PURITE | Moderate |
Thealoz Duo Gel (Thea Pharma) | Sodium hyaluronate (0.15%), trehalose (3%) | preservative-free | High |
This list of gel tears is incomplete. It covers mainly the products and countries that we assume are most relevant to our audience. If you need information about the brands and products in your country, let us know in the comments. Thank you for your support and understanding.
By understanding the benefits, proper usage techniques, potential side effects, and precautions, patients can effectively incorporate artificial tears gel into their eye care routine. Learn more about eye health in the Ophthalmology24 blog for patients.
Checked by Atanas Bogoev, MD.