carboxymethylcellulose + stabilized oxychlorocomplex

carboxymethylcellulose + stabilized oxychlorocomplex is a topical ophthalmic lubricant formulation used for the symptomatic relief of dry eye syndrome. The active ingredient, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), is a high-molecular-weight cellulose derivative that acts as a demulcent and mucomimetic, providing physical lubrication and increasing the residence time of the tear film on the ocular surface. The formulation is preserved with stabilized oxychlorocomplex (SOC), commercially known as PURITE, which is an oxidative preservative system composed of chlorite, chlorate, and trace amounts of chlorine dioxide. Unlike traditional preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride, SOC provides antimicrobial activity within the container but rapidly dissociates into natural tear components (water, oxygen, sodium, and chloride ions) upon exposure to light and the ocular surface, thereby minimizing preservative-induced ocular surface toxicity. This specific combination was evaluated in a randomized controlled trial by Chulalongkorn University to compare its efficacy and safety against carboxymethylcellulose alone in patients with moderate to severe dry eye.

Brand names

Refresh TearsRefresh Liquigel

Other names

0.5% carboxymethylcellulose with 0.005% stabilized oxychlorocomplexCMC-SOCCMC with PURITE