What is hypromellose?
Hypromellose is a medicine belonging to the group of artificial tears, whose active substance is of the same name hypromellose. It is a methylated cellulosecapable of increasing the viscosity of the cornea, whose tolerance is enormous in humans.
Hypromellose comes in a container or bottle of drops only, also called ophthalmic solutionswith amounts from 10 to 15 ml. On the other hand, the ideal application and dose is 1 to 2 drops every 3 or 4 hours maximum, measured at 3.2 mg / ml.
Note: One study mentions the following information regarding hypromellose: “The solution used as an eye lubricant is a sterile viscous, transparent, water-soluble and non-irritating liquid.” (1)
What is hypromellosa for?
Hypromellose hastwo specific functions, it serves to moisten the eye and at the same time protect it from external agents, so we will know in detail what this drug is for:
1. Eye irritation
Hypromellose is used to Reduces the the symptoms of burning eyes , which occurs from dry eyes, contact with bacteria or chemicals, and also from certain allergies.
To highlight: The reason is that the active principle is a viscous liquid that turns out to be very soluble in water, therefore it is not irritating and can be considered as an artificial tear, the lack of tears being a cause of burning eyes.
2. Lubrication and eye protection
On the other hand, the drug hypromellose is a great lubricant, especially in the case of dry eye syndrome, where there is a lack of secretions and is caused by prolonged use of contact lenses or eyelid disorders.
In this sense, hypromellose benefits the lubrication and moisturizing of the eyes, but it also protects evenly all around the eyeball thanks to the actions of the eyelids, without penetrating inside the cornea and prolonging tear production.
Hypromellose Side Effects
Hypromellose, like other medications, has certain adverse effects that must be taken into account , which are:
- Transient blurred vision (for short times).
- Light burning.
- Macular edema (fluid accumulated in the retina and macula).
- Conjunctival hyperemia (increased blood flow to the eyes).
Important: In case of presenting any of the aforementioned reactions, you should See your doctor for a guide on how to properly use said medication.
Contraindications of hypromellose
This drug also has contraindications, which are very important to know, so it should be known that hypromellose is contraindicated for:
- People with hypersensitivity to the active principle.
- Patients with asthma attacks.
- Patients with hives or swelling in any part of the body.
- Pregnant or lactating women (there are no safe levels and above all you have to see a doctor for recommendations).
To highlight: A study warns that: “The active ingredients dextran 70 and hypromelloseexert a protective effect on the surfaceand are not pharmacologically active. Therefore, no effects are expected when this drug is administered during pregnancy.” (3)
Key Findings
- Hypromellose is a generic medication with a lubricating active ingredient.
- It is only indicated to protect eye health from damage due to irritation and dryness.
- It has certain side effects such as mild blurred vision .
- It is especially contraindicated for people with allergies to the active substance.
- The use of hypromellose must be supervised by a specialist doctor , to avoid unwanted effects.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.