Dry Eye Gel Treatment Now Available OTC

Allergan has launched an OTC artificial tear product for dry eyes.

Refresh Optive Gel Drops come in the form of an aqueous gel formulated with glycerin and a blend of the active ingredient, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), which binds to the surface of the eye.

In a randomized study, Refresh Optive Gel Drops showed a statistically significant reduction in the symptoms of dry eye patients at day 30.

Allergan stated in a press release that the formula creates a shear-thinning effect that protects the eye from hypertonic stress.

"With Refresh Optive Gel Drops, eye care providers now have an even more comprehensive line of artificial tear types to offer to their patients with individual needs," said Joseph Vehige, vice president of consumer eye care research and development at Allergan, in a press release. "Leveraging the latest technology from Optive, the new multi-dose Gel Drops help dry eye patients find comfort any time, day or night.”

Around 25 million people in the United States experience dry eye symptoms, including irritation, blurred vision, burning, stinging, and sensitivity to light.