Description:

Hypromellose 0.3% w/v Eye Drops 10ml  is a sterile ophthalmic lubricant solution, commonly known as artificial tears. It is used to relieve dryness, irritation, burning, and discomfort in the eyes caused by reduced tear production (dry eye syndrome/keratoconjunctivitis sicca), environmental factors (e.g., wind, air conditioning, screens/VDUs), or infrequent blinking. It can also moisten hard contact lenses and lubricate artificial eyes (ocular prosthetics). Hypromellose forms a protective, viscous layer over the ocular surface to mimic natural tears and prevent corneal damage.

Prescription: Over-the-counter (OTC) in most markets, including Ghana. No prescription required; freely available in pharmacies and online (e.g., Amazon UK listings for Zuche Hypromellose 0.3%, and similar in Ghana via importers/pharmacies).

Therapeutic Category:

Ophthalmic lubricant / Artificial tears / Eye moisturizer (demulcent for dry eye relief).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Active ingredient: Hypromellose (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) 0.3% w/v (3 mg per ml). Excipients: Benzalkonium chloride (preservative, typically 0.01%), boric acid, borax, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, purified water (and others for isotonicity/pH adjustment; refer to label for full list).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None (trace sodium/potassium from salts for isotonicity, not therapeutic).

Variant: 0.3% w/v solution in 10 ml bottle (standard concentration for mild-moderate dry eye; 0.7% variants exist for thicker lubrication; single-use or multi-dose).

Consume Type:

Ophthalmic (eye drops; topical instillation into the conjunctival sac; external use only).

Directions/Usage: Adults and children: Instill 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) as needed, typically 3-4 times daily or more frequently if required (dose depends on severity of dryness/irritation). Technique: Wash hands, tilt head back, pull lower eyelid down, apply drops without touching dropper to eye/lid, close eye gently for 1-2 minutes (blink gently to spread), blot excess. Wait 5-10 minutes before other eye drops. Remove contact lenses before use (reinsert after 15 minutes). Use for as long as symptoms persist; discard bottle 28 days after opening.

Common Side Effects:

• Transient blurred vision (due to viscosity)
• Mild eye irritation, stinging, burning, or redness (initially)
• Foreign body sensation or tearing
• Rare: Allergic reactions (redness, itching, swelling), eye pain Most mild and short-lived; preservative (benzalkonium chloride) may cause irritation in sensitive users or with prolonged use.

Package Type:

Plastic dropper bottle of 10 ml (sterile, with nozzle tip and screw cap; often in carton box with leaflet).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25-30°C), protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep tightly closed. Discard 28 days after first opening (or as labelled). Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external ophthalmic use only; avoid contamination (do not touch dropper tip to eye/surface).
• Remove contact lenses before use (preservative may bind to soft lenses and cause irritation/discoloration).
• Caution in known hypersensitivity to ingredients or preservatives.
• If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue and consult a doctor (may indicate allergy or infection).
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Generally safe (no systemic absorption concerns).
• Do not use if solution changes color or becomes cloudy.
• Seek medical advice if dry eyes persist, worsen, or accompany vision changes/pain (may require further evaluation).

Product Substitutes: Other hypromellose 0.3% eye drops: Oculose Eye Drops (Zuche Pharma), Hypromellose Eye Drops BP 0.3% (generics from Martindale, Lumecare, Evolve, or local importers in Ghana), Artelac, Hydromoor, or Xailin Hydrate. For thicker relief: 0.7% variants or carbomer-based drops. Consult pharmacist for preservative-free options if sensitivity occurs.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Zuche Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd. (Indian pharmaceutical company specializing in ophthalmics; produces Hypromellose Eye Drops 0.3% w/v under own branding or as generics).

Country of Origin:

India.