Description:

Refresh Tears 15ml is a preservative-free lubricating eye drop (artificial tears) designed to provide immediate and long-lasting relief from dryness, irritation, burning, and discomfort caused by dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), environmental factors (wind, air conditioning, prolonged screen time), or infrequent blinking. It helps restore moisture to the ocular surface, stabilizes the tear film, and protects the cornea. It is suitable for mild to moderate dry eye and can be used as often as needed.

Prescription: Over-the-counter (OTC). No prescription required; available in pharmacies worldwide, including in Ghana through importers.

Therapeutic Category:

Ophthalmic lubricant / Artificial tears (demulcent for symptomatic relief of dry eye conditions).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Active ingredient: Carboxymethylcellulose sodium 0.5% w/v (5 mg/ml). Preservative-free formulation. Excipients: Purified water, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium lactate, and other electrolytes to mimic natural tears (isotonic and pH-balanced).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None (electrolytes are present for osmolarity and comfort, but not therapeutic minerals).

Variant: Standard Refresh Tears (0.5% carboxymethylcellulose) in 15ml multi-dose bottle (preservative-free; differs from Refresh Liquigel which is thicker, or Refresh Plus which is 0.5% with different formulation).

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 (can be used multiple times daily). Technique: Wash hands, tilt head back, pull lower eyelid down, apply drop without touching dropper to eye/lid, close eye gently for 1–2 minutes, and blink to spread. Blot excess. Remove contact lenses before use (wait 15 minutes to reinsert). Use for as long as symptoms persist.

Common Side Effects:

• Temporary blurred vision
• Mild eye irritation, stinging, or burning (transient)
• Increased tearing or foreign body sensation
• Rare: Allergic reactions (redness, itching, swelling) Most effects are mild and short-lived.

Package Type:

Multi-dose plastic dropper bottle of 15 ml (sterile, with nozzle tip and screw cap; often in carton with leaflet).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C), protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep tightly closed. Discard 28–30 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 or surface).
• Remove contact lenses before use (preservative-free formula is safer for lens wearers, but still wait 15 minutes before reinserting).
• If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue and consult an ophthalmologist.
• Safe in pregnancy/breastfeeding (minimal systemic absorption).
• Do not use if solution is cloudy or discolored.
• Persistent dry eyes may require specialist evaluation or additional treatments.

Product Substitutes: Other carboxymethylcellulose-based eye drops: Refresh Liquigel (thicker gel), Refresh Plus, Celluvisc, or generic carboxymethylcellulose 0.5% eye drops. Alternatives: Hypromellose 0.3%, hyaluronic acid drops, or carbomer gels (e.g., Viscotears). Consult a pharmacist or ophthalmologist for suitable options.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

AbbVie Inc.

Country of Origin:

United States.