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Ocular lubricant

Hydroxypropyl guar with polyethylene glycol & propylene glycol

Brand names: Systane

This combination is an ocular lubricant eye drop containing the gelling agent hydroxypropyl guar with the demulcents polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol, used for symptomatic relief of dry eye disease.

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

Hydroxypropyl guar gels on contact with the ocular surface to prolong retention of the polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol demulcents, lubricating and stabilising the tear film.

Prescribing in practice

  • Some presentations contain preservatives that may cause ocular surface irritation with long-term frequent use, so choose a preservative-free option where chronic or frequent dosing is anticipated.
  • May be used as needed for symptom control and is generally well tolerated.
  • Apply this drop before any thicker gels or ointments when several products are used and separate instillation of different drops.

Monitoring

No systemic monitoring is required; review symptom control and ocular surface health at clinical follow-up.

Counselling the patient

  • Transient blurring is common after instillation, so wait until vision is clear before driving.
  • Do not let the dropper tip touch the eye and discard within the time stated after opening.

Evidence & guidelines

Lubricant eye drops are recommended for symptomatic dry eye disease in general ophthalmic practice and NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries.

Reference: Confirm identity and dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC) and NICE. 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.

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