carboxymethylcellulose sodium

TheraTears is a brand of over-the-counter ophthalmic lubricant eye drops primarily used to relieve symptoms of dry eye such as burning, irritation, and discomfort. The active ingredient is sodium carboxymethylcellulose 0.25%, which acts as a mechanical lubricant and moisturizer for the ocular surface[3][4][7]. Its unique hypotonic and electrolyte-balanced formula is designed to replicate healthy natural tears and help restore the tear film's normal osmolarity[3][6]. TheraTears provides immediate, long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms by supplementing or replacing deficient natural tears. It does not have a pharmacological target but works through physical lubrication and moisture retention on the ocular surface[6]. Developed originally by Dr. Jeffrey P. Gilbard, it has been shown in studies to restore conjunctival goblet cells and corneal glycogen levels[8].

Brand names

TheraTears

Other names

ocular lubricantartificial tearssodium carboxymethylcellulose