Hypromellose
Hypromellose is an ophthalmic lubricating agent commonly used as artificial tears to relieve dryness and irritation of the eyes. It works by providing temporary relief from burning, foreign body sensation, and discomfort caused by environmental factors such as wind, sun, or air conditioning. Patients with dry eye syndrome or those experiencing ocular discomfort from various causes typically use this medication.
Hypromellose is an eye lubricant used to treat dry eyes and provide relief from ocular irritation.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- S01XA20
- RxNorm
- 5492
- Generic
- Hypromellose
- Class
- atc-s01
- Brands
- Bion Tears, GenTeal, Goniosoft, Isopto Alkaline, Cellugel, Tears Naturale Forte, Goniovisc
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- N
- Lactation
- safe
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 5
- Duration (h)
- 4
- Routes
- ophthalmic
- Forms
- ophthalmic solution, ophthalmic gel, eye drops
- Regions
- United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, India, Brazil
- Monitoring
- none
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 1-2 drops per eye as needed
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 4-6 hours as needed
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1 drop per eye as needed
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 4-6 hours as needed
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1-2 drops per eye as needed
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 4-6 hours as needed
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
10 groupspregnancy
first trimesterno adjustment needed
use only if clearly needed; topical ophthalmic use results in minimal systemic absorption
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimestersno adjustment needed
continue use as needed for ocular comfort; consult healthcare provider
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
n ano adjustment needed
safe for use while breastfeeding; minimal systemic absorption
none required
pediatric_age
children 2 12no adjustment needed
use under adult supervision; appropriate for pediatric dry eye
monitor for proper administration technique
pediatric_age
adolescents 13 17no adjustment needed
safe for adolescent use
none specific
geriatric
over 65no adjustment needed
safe for elderly population; commonly used for age-related dry eye
regular ophthalmologic exams
renal_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption
none specific
renal_impairment
severeno adjustment needed
safe for use; no renal excretion concerns
none specific
hepatic_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed
no adjustment needed due to minimal hepatic metabolism
none specific
hepatic_impairment
severeno adjustment needed
safe for use
none specific
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for ophthalmic lubricants
Drug class
Classification as viscoelastic ophthalmic solution
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indication for artificial tears
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological mechanism information
Treatment of dry eye syndrome, ocular irritation from environmental factors (wind, sun, smoke, air conditioning), and relief of foreign body sensation in the eye. Also used as a lubricant during ophthalmic procedures and for contact lens comfort.
Hypromellose is a cellulose derivative that acts as a demulcent and lubricant. It increases the viscosity of tears, forming a protective film over the ocular surface that helps maintain moisture, reduces friction during blinking, and temporarily supplements natural tear film.
For ophthalmic use only. Wash hands before application and avoid touching the tip of the container to prevent contamination. If using with contact lenses, consult a healthcare provider as some formulations may not be suitable for use while wearing lenses. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if eye pain, vision changes, or worsening symptoms occur.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy