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Viscous artificial tears (carbomer 940)

Carbomers (eye gels)

Brand names: Viscotears, GelTears, Liquivisc

Carbomers are high-molecular-weight polyacrylic acid polymers formulated as ocular lubricant eye gels for the symptomatic relief of dry eye and tear-deficiency conditions.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

They form a viscous mucomimetic layer over the ocular surface that increases tear-film retention time and protects the cornea and conjunctiva from drying.

Prescribing in practice

  • Transient visual blurring after instillation is expected because of the gel viscosity; advise appropriate timing of doses.
  • When used with other ophthalmic preparations, apply the carbomer gel last and separate applications in time.
  • Some products contain preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride; preservative-free options may suit frequent users or sensitive eyes.

Monitoring

No specific monitoring is required beyond reviewing symptom control and ocular surface comfort, with reassessment if relief is inadequate.

Counselling the patient

  • Vision may blur briefly after application; do not drive until it clears.
  • Preservative-free formulations are preferable if drops are needed frequently.
  • Follow the recommended discard time after opening to limit contamination.

Evidence & guidelines

Ocular lubricants such as carbomer gels are a well-established first-line option for managing the symptoms of dry eye disease.

Reference: RCOphth dry eye; TFOS DEWS II; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways