Carmellose sodium

How it works

As a hydrophilic polymer it increases tear-film viscosity and retains moisture on the ocular surface, lubricating and protecting the cornea and conjunctiva.

Prescribing in practice

• Available as preservative-free formulations, which are preferred for frequent use or in patients sensitive to preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride.
• May cause mild transient blurring or stinging on instillation.
• If multiple eye preparations are needed, separate their administration to avoid dilution and irritation.

Monitoring

No laboratory monitoring is required; review symptomatic improvement in ocular comfort and adjust the preparation or frequency as needed.

Counselling the patient

• Drops can be used as often as needed for comfort, with preservative-free options if applied frequently.
• Remove soft contact lenses before instilling unless the product is licensed for use with lenses.
• Discard single-use units immediately after use and multidose bottles by the stated time after opening.

Evidence & guidelines

Artificial tears containing agents such as carmellose are a mainstay of symptomatic treatment for dry eye disease.