In the treatment of eye diseases, drops come first as drugs that are the most convenient to use, allowing you to limit the intake of systemic drugs, and, therefore, limit their possible side effects. However, you should not use drops yourself, since their variety requires competent medical prescription in accordance with the pathology and needs of the patient.

Classification of eye drops

I. To fight infection.
1. Active against bacterial flora, mycoplasmas, chlamydia. Levomycetin (chloramphenicol 0.25%), Vigamox (moxifloxacin 0.5%), Tobrex (0.3% tobramycin), Tsipromed (0.3% ciprofloxacin), Oftavix (0.3% levofloxacin), Normax (norfloxacin), floxal (ofloxacin).
2. Actipol (0.07% aminobenzoic acid), poludan (polyriboadenylic acid). Trifluridine is effective against the herpes virus. Interferon-based berophor.
3. (active against both bacteria and viruses). Albucid (sulfacyl sodium).
II. To combat allergies. Most often used for allergic conjunctivitis. Allergodil (azelastine), cromohexal (cromoglycic acid disodium salt), opatonol (olopatodine), lecrolin (cromoglycic acid).
III. Anti-inflammatory drugs.
1. Dexamethasone (0.1%), dexamethasone-lance and prednisolone (1%) drops, prenacid (desonide),
2. Voltaren ofta, naklof (diclofenac), indocollyr (indomethacin).
IV. Combined anti-inflammatory drugs.
Sofradex (framycetin sulfate + gramicidin + dexamethasone metasulfobenzchoate) with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects.
Ophthalmoferon (human interferon with diphenhydramine) with antiviral and antihistamine activity.
Tobradex (dexamethasone plus tobramycin) antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic effects.
V. Glaucoma drops. Reduce intraocular pressure. Prescribed for continuous use. Reduce the production of intraocular fluid or improve its outflow. Pilocarpine, betoptik, arutimol, xalatan, trusopt, proxofeline, cosopt, travatan, xalacom, azopt.
VI. Vitamin eye drops. They are used to nourish eye tissue to improve metabolic processes, slow the formation of cataracts, reduce presbyopia, slow the progression of myopia or farsightedness, and retinopathy due to metabolic disorders. Quinax, catachrome, catalin, vitaiodurol.
VII. Eye drops that improve nutrition of eye tissue. Solcoseryl, taufon, balarpan.
VIII. Drops used for diagnostic procedures. These are means that dilate the pupil and allow you to examine the fundus of the eye. Atropine, midriacil.
IX. Additional drugs. This includes artificial tears, which are used for excessive dry eyes to avoid keratitis.
X. Symptomatic vasoconstrictor drops. Octilia, Visine (based on tetrizoline) eliminates redness, swelling, discomfort in the eye, and lacrimation. Ambulance facilities. Can be used independently for a short time. Their use does not treat eye pathologies and does not allow you to refuse a visit to the ophthalmologist.

The second dosage form, convenient and popular in eye treatment, is eye ointments and gels.

Eye ointments and gels

1. Tetracycline and erythromycin 1% ointment, blepharogel, ciprofloxacin ointment, Tobrex (tobramycin).
2. Acyclovir ointment, Zovirax, ganciclovir gel – against herpes. Fron based on beta-interferron.
3. Hydrocortisone ointment.
4. Panophthal, pasiformin.
5. Solcoseryl gel.
6. Sikkapos gel, visk-ophthal.

Self-medication for eye diseases is dangerous due to its consequences. If infectious lesions are not treated correctly, simple conjunctivitis can lead to keratitis and loss of vision. Uncontrolled or long-term use of hormone-containing drugs can provoke the development of secondary glaucoma, complications of cataracts and even corneal ulcerations. First aid for conjunctivitis is Albucid, and for irritated eye syndrome - Visine.

The human eye is a unique information-optical analyzer that converts light pulses of different frequencies and intensities into electrical signals that transmit a visual picture of the surrounding world to the brain. The sharpness and clarity of vision and the performance of the eye largely depend on the state of the fluids that fill the eyeball inside and wash the cornea outside. The eye is the most “liquid” organ of our body; water in the eye is at least 95%.

The most serious “internal” pathology of the organ of vision associated with the state of the fluid filling it is excessive intraocular pressure (glaucoma), which without timely treatment leads to optic nerve atrophy and irreversible blindness. Dysfunction of the lacrimal glands and lack of hydration leads to diseases of the external parts of the eye - eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea. These diseases seem less serious, but if they are not treated, then eventually constant eye strain and inflammation can move to the inside of the eye and also cause significant deterioration of vision or even complete loss of vision. Not to mention that red eyes and sore eyelids do not suit either adults or children.

What is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eyes are the most common man-made vision pathology, rapidly spreading throughout the world along with computers, mobile gadgets, game consoles, and wearing contact lenses. E: If previously it was possible to damage your eyesight through intensive reading, writing or working in poor lighting with small objects or details, today every third inhabitant of the planet regularly uses a computer, which is much more harmful than reading and writing combined. Firstly, the eyes near the monitor are exposed to constant electromagnetic radiation (only reflected light comes from the pages of the book). Secondly, the display of a desktop computer or laptop is much larger than a regular book page (both in centimeters and in pixels). Thirdly, the image on the display is not static, the eyes are forced to do more work. At the same time, the person blinks much less often, which means that the tear secretion reaches the cornea of ​​the eye less often, enveloping it with a protective tear film. The result is obvious - the lacrimal glands simply physically do not have time to produce a sufficient amount of washing fluid, and tens of millions of people around the world have a need to buy inexpensive moisturizing eye drops to maintain their performance during intensive work at the computer.

Infections and inflammation

Dry eyes not only reduces visual acuity, but also promotes the development of infections. The fact is that tears have bactericidal properties and protect the eye from germs, fungi and viruses. If the tear fluid becomes small, the causative agents of blepharitis, conjunctivitis and other diseases are instantly activated and cause serious vision problems. From the eyes, pathogens can travel through the bloodstream to other points in the body and cause new foci of infection there.

Contact lens problem

When wearing contact lenses, a slightly different situation arises. The plastic lens replaces glasses and is very convenient from a functional and cosmetic point of view. However, for the delicate tissues of the eye it is a foreign body and inevitably causes friction. For the time being, the secretion of the lacrimal glands neutralizes this friction, but then the tears run out and the need arises to use moisturizing eye drops. Wearing lenses without moisturizing liquid will very soon become painful and simply excruciating, and can lead to injury to the cornea and inflammation of the surrounding tissues. In the narrow space between the lens and the cornea, pathogenic microorganisms multiply very well, which aggravates the inflammatory process.

Climate and dry eyes

Another possible problem with dry eyes is sudden changes in temperature and humidity. Discomfort appears when moving from a cold room to a warm one, from a stuffy corridor to a room equipped with air conditioning. Tourists who arrive in December to vacation in a hot country can feel a burning sensation in their eyes and sand under their eyelids. In such cases, doctors also recommend instilling drops for dry eyes until the unpleasant symptoms pass.

Professional indications

Preparations for creating a tear film will also be useful for representatives of professions associated with work with high dust levels (builders, road workers, carpenters, plasterers), workers in hot shops, truck drivers (however, the last drops should be dripped not during a flight, but on vacation).

You can read more about the causes, symptoms and consequences of dry eye in our previous article.

Drops for dry eyes

The principle of action of drops for dry eyes is simple - they compensate for the lack of natural tears as a natural lubricant and partly as a bactericidal agent. Pharmaceutical companies strive to create universal products that would be suitable for people who wear contact lenses, and for those who work intensively on the computer and in hazardous work, or travel a lot, changing climatic zones.

When choosing drops for dry eyes, there are several factors to consider:

• manufacturer rating;
• composition and possible contraindications;
• bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect of the drug (or lack thereof);
• price of drops.

Be sure to check the expiration date of the medicine. For drops made from distilled water, without the use of preservatives, it cannot be large! And they simply don’t make eye drops with preservatives!

You should not go to extremes, choosing drops that are “cheaper” or according to the principle “the more expensive, the better.” It is best to consult with an experienced ophthalmologist, who will help you take into account concomitant pathologies, tell you about possible allergic reactions, and recommend the optimal course of treatment and the procedure for using drops to prevent dry eyes.

Composition of drops for dry eyes

Most drugs, in addition to distilled water, include three components:

• glycerol;
• povidone;
• sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.

In addition, manufacturers add various natural and synthetic additives, vitamins, and microelements to the drops, designed to improve eye condition and activate metabolic processes.

Some drops contain components that are not recommended for dry eyes in children, as well as in pregnant and lactating women. The packaging of such drugs must contain an appropriate warning.

List of drugs

The list of moisturizing eye drops, the most popular in Russia, includes the following drugs:

• Visine;
• Visomitin;
• Innoxa;
• Oksial;
• Systane-Ultra;
• Natural tear;
• Hilo chest of drawers.

The cost of the drops directly depends on the promotion of the brand, the composition of the drug and the range of therapeutic effects. You can buy inexpensive moisturizing eye drops for 150-300 rubles. The maximum price is 700-800 rubles, in this case the drug combines moisturizing, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, vasodilating or vasoconstrictive effects. The leaders of the rating are Vizin and Oksial.

The Many Faces of Vizin

Visine is a gentle, universal drops for dry eyes for all occasions. Designed for daily preventive use. Visine classic has a vasoconstrictor and anti-edematous effect. The active substance is tetrizoline hydrochloride, an adrenomimetic amine that effectively reduces tension in the walls of blood vessels.

According to statistics, every second contact lens owner uses Visin. The drug does not have any special antimicrobial properties. The price of a classic 15 ml bottle starts from 300 rubles. The more expensive antiallergic Vizin is also available in 4 ml bottles and Vizin Pure Tear in bottles with a dispenser (dropper) and in ampoules.

Pure tear - drops designed exclusively to combat dry eyes and redness (conjunctival hyperemia). The active ingredient of the drops is a plant polysaccharide, which makes the solution almost identical to natural tear fluid. Thanks to the forces of surface tension, Pure Tears envelop the conjunctiva and protect it from adverse environmental factors and fatigue.

Visin Allergy is intended to relieve eye irritation resulting from an allergic reaction (for example, to pollen). The main active ingredient is levocabastine hydrochloride, which has a pronounced antihistamine effect.

Visomitin - an analogue of Visin

Visomitin is a keratoprotector similar to Visin; in addition to cases of dry eye syndrome, it is also prescribed for inflammatory eye diseases and cataracts as an additional treatment that protects eye tissue. It begins to act 5-7 minutes after instillation (1-2 drops per eye). The price of Visomitin is significantly higher than the cost of Visine. The release form is a 5 ml bottle, it costs from 615 rubles in pharmacies.

Cornflower drops

Innoxa (“cornflower blue drops”) is a natural hypoallergenic drug based on herbal ingredients, manufactured in France. The box, bottle and the ophthalmic solution itself have a very pretty blue color. It has a calming, moisturizing and mild anti-inflammatory effect, and is good for irritation from contact lenses. Effective immediately after instillation. A sterile bottle with a capacity of 10 ml costs from 550 rubles.

Oksial - the leader of eye drops based on hyaluronic acid

Oxial is a pharmacological eye product based on hyaluronic acid. In addition to it, the ophthalmic solution contains boric acid, salts of alkali and alkaline earth metals (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium), as well as the polymer keratoprotector and preservative Oxide, patented by the manufacturer.

Hyaluronic acid is an organic substance that is produced by the human body itself and has a powerful regenerative effect on the skin and mucous membranes. The drug relieves dryness, relieves redness and irritation, has an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effect, restores corneal cells, and helps with minor hemorrhages. Available in 10 ml bottles, which cost from 400 rubles.

Polymer preparation Systane-Ultra

Systane-Ultra is a complex polymer preparation for the eyes that has anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and anti-allergic effects. It is recommended to take it with you when traveling in case of allergic reactions and the appearance of dry eye syndrome due to climate change.

The drug does not contain hyaluronic acid, traditional for eye drops. Instead, propylene and polyethylene glycol, hydroxypropyl guar, boric acid, as well as alkali metal salts, which create a very weak electrolyte in the tear fluid, combat dryness and redness of the eyes. Organic polymers create a stable tear film.

Systane-Ultra is sold in single ampoules of 0.7 ml, bottles of 3 and 15 ml. An ampoule costs 130-150 rubles, a small bottle - from 200 rubles, a large bottle 550-600 rubles.

Natural tear

Natural tears are almost a complete analogue of human tears. Gently moisturizes dry corneal tissue and has no contraindications. Can be prescribed to babies and expectant mothers. It does not have an anti-inflammatory effect, the product is purely prophylactic. A 15 ml solution costs from 300 rubles, so the drug is cheaper than Visin Pure Tear.

Hilo chest of drawers

Hilo-chest of drawers has nothing to do with furniture; the name is associated with the convenient design of the container for storing and using drops. There is a valve between the container and the dispenser that prevents accidental spillage of the contents. Convenience in English is a commodity, hence the name. By the way, hilo-chest is the only drug that has no expiration date and does not have to be stored in the refrigerator, like all other drops for dry eyes. Thanks to the valve, microbes from outside do not penetrate into the container and the solution does not deteriorate over time.

The main active ingredient is sodium salt of hyaluronic acid. In addition, the drops contain a small amount of tricarboxylic hydroxy acid and alcohols.

The drug has a universal effect and is especially recommended for anyone who wears contact lenses for many hours in a row. The price of a container with a capacity of 15 ml is from 450 rubles, which is very profitable, since the design of the bottle allows it to be used extremely economically, without losing a single drop of the drug when instilled correctly.

How to apply eye drops correctly?

For many patients who experience dry eyes due to wearing lenses or as a result of intense computer work, this problem turns out to be quite serious, especially at first.

The basic rules of this manipulation, as well as typical beginner mistakes, can be learned from this video:

Eye drops are a personal hygiene product and cannot be passed on to other people. The pipette should be periodically disinfected with an alcohol wipe or hydrogen peroxide. Before instillation, be sure to wash your hands with soap.

Eye drops have a relatively short shelf life (unless it is a Hilo-chest, which has a sealed bottle with a one-way valve). To ensure that bacteria multiply in the solution as slowly as possible, the bottle should be stored in the refrigerator. But you shouldn’t put cold drops into your eyes either - there may be a negative effect from the temperature difference. Therefore, the best option is to use disposable ampoules with a pipette, although this dosage form has the highest price in terms of the volume of drops.

Inexpensive moisturizing eye drops, the list of which is presented above, are primarily preventive agents that are used at the initial stage of dry eye syndrome and related ophthalmological disorders. If redness and irritation of the eyes are not paid attention to, treated and the causes are not dealt with, the disease can become more serious, requiring treatment under the supervision of a doctor and the use of more expensive procedures and medications.

Any medicine must be taken and used correctly, because... if taken incorrectly there will be no therapeutic effect and complications may arise. Eye drops are no exception; therefore, you should know how to instill them correctly so that they stay on the mucous membrane. Also, if you instill it incorrectly, you may encounter side effects.

Briefly about eye drops

Eye drops are a solution of substances of medicinal origin. Used in the treatment of ophthalmological diseases. Preparations are made from the active ingredients of aqueous and oily solutions. They are used not only to treat diseases, but also to relieve eye discomfort.

Special technologies are used for manufacturing to make the medicine as effective as possible. The selection of substances for the solution is made in such a way that they can penetrate through the cornea to the anterior chamber of the eyeball within 30 minutes.

Important! To achieve the most effective effect, you must strictly adhere to the dosage prescribed by the ophthalmologist.

Directions for use

When using contact lenses, it is not recommended to use it, since the active substance of the drug may accumulate on the mucous membrane, which will cause an overdose. If it is not possible, then it is necessary to remove the eye drops at the time of instillation and not put them on for at least half an hour.

In some cases, the ophthalmologist may prescribe the use of several types of eye drops at the same time. Then it is necessary to maintain an interval between instillation of at least 20-30 minutes, that is, instill the first type of drops, after 30 minutes the second and, if necessary, after another 30 minutes the third.

The ophthalmologist prescribes the duration of treatment and the amount of use per day individually, depending on the complexity of the diagnosis. For acute infectious diseases, it may be necessary to instill drops up to 12 times a day. If you need to alleviate the condition, relieve discomfort, then you can use the medicine up to 3 times a day.

If the doctor prescribes the use of ointment and drops at the same time, first of all you should drip the drops, and after 3-5 minutes put the ointment behind the lower eyelid. If you do the procedure in the reverse order, then the drops will not get into the eyes, because the ointment will not allow the active substance to pass through the cornea.

Step by step instructions

If you know how to put drops into your eyes correctly, then you can avoid serious consequences. If instilled incorrectly, you can damage the membrane of the eye or cause side effects. As for the instructions for using drops, then:

• Unpacking the product, you need to make sure it is tight and look at the expiration date. If the drug is contained in a transparent bottle, you need to look for the presence of sediments and impurities that should not be there.
• Next, you need to take a comfortable position. For convenience, you can use the following positions: sit on a chair or chair with a back, head tilted back, or take a lying position; no need to put a pillow under your head. Do not attempt to instill drops while standing. For greater convenience, you can use a small mirror.
• The position has been accepted, now you need to use the index finger of your right hand to pull the lower eyelid down and look up.
• Next, you should take the bottle with drops in your left hand, turn the tip down, bring it to the eye and drop 1-2 drops into the conjunctival sac. You should try to instill drops closer to the outer corner of the eye.

Attention! Be careful not to injure your eyes. Do not touch the conjunctiva.

You should not be afraid of getting a larger volume of drops into the eye than required, since the volume of a drop on average is 25 microliters, and the eye of an adult can hold no more than 15 microliters. If an excess amount of medicine is ingested, then it is excreted with tears. After instilling the drops, you need to close your eyes and sit without moving for about a minute, then use light massage movements to massage the corners of your eyes. This will help distribute the medicine evenly throughout the eyeball.

If required, then the procedure must be repeated with the second eye. Afterwards, the bottle with the drug should be tightly closed and placed back in the packaging. It is important to study the storage conditions of the drops, since many drugs can only be stored in the refrigerator.

When instilling drops frequently, it is necessary to maintain an interval of at least 30 minutes, since some components of different drugs, when interacting, can cause an allergic reaction or side effect.

Consequences of errors when burying

The procedure for instilling drops should be carried out by a person who has the skill, despite the fact that the process seems simple. In some cases, inexperienced people make the following mistakes:

Putting drops into a child's eyes

Quite often, doctors prescribe eye drops to children, who in most cases are wary of any treatment. And then parents are faced with a difficult task: how to properly instill eye drops into their child in order to avoid stress and cure the disease. If the child is already of a conscious age, then first of all you need to try to explain to him that the drops are good and do not hurt at all.

After the first procedure, the child will understand that he was not deceived and instilling the drops really does not hurt, so next time there will be no need for persuasion. If necessary, then repeat the process with the second eye, close the bottle and put it out of the reach of children.

Disease Prevention

Eye disease can be painful and create discomfort, for this reason experts recommend preventing the process. If you follow certain rules, your eyes will always be healthy:

If you have problems with your eyes (discomfort, redness, tearing), then you should immediately consult an ophthalmologist.

Treatment of eye diseases

Treatment of any eye disease is a labor-intensive and complex process. Quite often, full recovery requires surgery, which is dangerous. It is for this reason that doctors strongly recommend seeking help in a timely manner.

In most cases, eye drops for glaucoma and cataracts bring only a temporary effect and are not able to cure the disease. But they can help with conjunctivitis at the initial stage of development.

Commonly prescribed medications for treatment:

The optimal temperature for storing drops is +25C, but not higher. Otherwise, the medicine may lose its properties. An open bottle should not be stored for more than 30 days.

You should not choose any drug yourself. Experts strongly recommend that at the first symptoms you consult a doctor without delay. Since each of the diseases, even simple redness can cause serious complications and lead to complete loss of vision.

Attention, TODAY only!

Eye drops are solutions of medications intended for instillation into the eyes. The drug may be based on an aqueous or oily solution. All drops are sterile and isotonic solutions. The effect achieved by their use depends on the active substance included in their composition. Drops can be prescribed both to treat eye diseases and to eliminate individual symptoms.

Species

Depending on the type of action and their application, all eye drops can be divided into several groups:

Drops used to treat infectious eye diseases:

• containing antiviral agents, used to treat viral infections (Poludan, Aktipol, Berofor, etc.);
• Antibacterial drops are intended to treat eye infections caused by bacteria. The drug can use various antibiotics and there are many antibacterial drugs - Tobrex, Tsipromed, Vigamox, Normax, Levomycytin, Maxitrol, etc.;
• eye drops containing antifungal agents are used in the treatment of fungal infections. For these purposes, a 5% suspension of natamycin, a solution of Ketoconazole, Nystatin, Fluconazole, Miconazole, etc. can be taken;
• eye drops containing antiseptics - Miramistin, Ophthalmo-Septonex, etc.;
• eye drops containing sulfonamide agents. They are taken to treat both viral and bacterial eye infections (the best known is a drug based on sodium sulfacyl - Albucid).

Anti-inflammatory eye drops:

• containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The use of drops to relieve acute symptoms of inflammation in various eye diseases. Among such drugs are Naklof, Voltaren Ofta, Indocollir.
• containing glucocorticoid hormones (Betamethasone, Dexamethasone, Prednisolone, etc.);
• combination drugs that may contain antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antiviral components, hormones or other substances (for example, Tobradex - has an antibacterial effect due to the antibiotic included in its composition and an anti-inflammatory effect due to the existing hormone).

Antiallergic drops can be taken to prevent the development of allergic reactions, and to treat existing ones. They differ in the content of the active substance:

• drugs in which antihistamines act as active agents (Histimet, Allergodil, Opatonol, Azelastine, Antazolin, etc.);
• eye drops with membrane stabilizers (Lodoxamide, Cromohexal, Alomide, Lecrolin);
• eye drops with vasoconstrictors (Oxymetazoline, Tetrizoline, Phenylephrine, Allergophthal, etc.).

Drops to reduce intraocular pressure (use for the treatment of glaucoma). They differ in their mechanism of action:

• drugs that promote better outflow of intraocular fluid (Carbachol, Pilocarpine, Xalatan, Travatan, Latanoprost, etc.);
• eye drops, the effect of which is aimed at reducing the formation of intraocular fluid (Betaxolol, Clonidine, Dorzolamide, Azopt, Proxofeline, Cosopt, etc.);
• eye drops with neuroprotectors that support the functioning of the optic nerve and prevent its swelling (Emoxipin, Erisod).

Medicines used to prevent and treat cataracts. Divided into several groups:

• alpha-adrenergic agonists (Irifin, Mezaton);
• M-anticholinergics (solution of homatropine, atropine, scopolamine);
• eye drops aimed at improving metabolic processes in the lens (Taufon, Taurine, Quinax, Oftan-Katarkhom).

Drops to moisturize the surface of the eye. Can be taken for dry eyes due to any disease or condition. This group of eye drops is also called “artificial tears”. These include Oftagel, Systane, Vidisik, Oksial, Hilo chest of drawers.

Eye drops used for diagnostics, which dilate the pupil and allow better examination of the fundus (Mydriacyl, Atropine, Fluorescein).

Eye drops aimed at restoring the normal structure of the cornea. They activate metabolic processes in eye tissues and improve nutrition. These include Erisod, Etaden, Solcoseryl, Taufon, Emoxipin, etc.

Eye drops used to treat hemorrhagic and fimbrinoid syndrome, which can occur in various diseases. Such drugs are Gemaza, Histochrome, Collalysin, Emoxipin.

Vasoconstrictor drops. Use to relieve redness of the eyes, watery eyes, swelling, which appear against the background of certain diseases. They do not have a therapeutic effect, but only relieve the above symptoms. Among such drops are Octilia and Visin.

Medicines containing nutrients (vitamins, amino acids, minerals). Among them are Taurine, Ophthalm-catachrom, Catalin, Taufon.

Antibacterial eye drops

This group is intended for the treatment of diseases of the eyes and their appendages caused by bacteria. Most often, these drops are taken to treat blepharitis, conjunctivitis, keratitis and other diseases of a bacterial nature. They can also be used as an adjuvant treatment for viral diseases. For example, with adenoviral conjunctivitis, there is a high probability of a secondary bacterial infection, so in this case the doctor may recommend the additional use of antibacterial eye drops. They can also be prescribed in the postoperative period, when surgery was performed for glaucoma, cataracts, laser vision correction, etc. Another indication for the prescription of antibacterial drops is eye injuries (for example, foreign body entry).

Of the entire group of drugs intended for the treatment of infectious eye diseases, antibacterial drugs can be called the most numerous. After all, bacteria are often the cause of many eye problems. The most common diseases for which antibacterial drops can be used include the following:

• conjunctivitis;
• blepharitis;
• keratitis;
• meiobite;
• dacryocystitis;
• uevitis;
• corneal ulcer;
• postoperative and post-traumatic purulent lesions.

Based on their active substance, this group of drugs can be divided into:

• products containing antibiotics;
• eye drops with sulfonamides.

In antibiotic products, the main active ingredient may be compounds of semi-synthetic or synthetic origin. Moreover, in the group of drops containing antibiotics, several subgroups can be distinguished depending on the antibacterial agent used. The most commonly used antibiotics in eye drops for eye diseases are:

• levomitin (Chloramphenicol drops);
• aminoglycosides (Tobrex drops, Dilaterol);
• fluoroquinolones (Tsipromed, Tsiloxan, Tsiprolet, Floxan, Signecif).

Drops based on sulfonamide drugs began to be used earlier compared to those containing antibiotics. But they have retained their relevance and can be prescribed for the treatment of certain diseases. The most famous of this group is sodium sulfacyl (albucid).

Selection of antibacterial drugs

A doctor should prescribe antibacterial agents. In doing so, he can focus on the following main points:

• the spectrum of action of this drug is taken into account;
• its tolerability by patients;
• the severity of the disease and the patient’s condition;
• patient's age;
• the expected resistance of the pathogen to this agent is taken into account;
• use with other medications;
• possible side effects are taken into account.

If there are any contraindications to the use of certain medications, then the choice of antibacterial agents may not be large. In this case, the most common contraindications are the patient’s age (when there are certain restrictions) and his state of health. For example, children in their first year of life are usually not prescribed antibacterial eye drops. And drugs containing sulfonamides cannot be prescribed to a patient if he has severe liver damage. In the presence of acoustic neuritis, drops with an antibiotic from the aminoglycoside group cannot be taken (due to the fact that among the side effects caused by these antibiotics, the most common is their ototoxicity).

In some cases, a limitation may be the presence of a concomitant disease and the drug taken for this reason. For example, the presence of chloramphenicol in the drug may contribute to the development of aplastic anemia if they are prescribed simultaneously with cimetidine, which reduces the acidity of gastric juice.

Eye drops with antiviral effect

This group of drugs differs in their mechanism of action and therefore can be distinguished:

• drops containing virucidal chemotherapy drugs (chemicals that kill the virus);
• interferons (immune substances that destroy the virus);
• interferon inducers (stimulating protective forces).

Method and dosage

Virucidal chemotherapy drugs can be taken to treat eye conditions in both adults and children. They are most often used for herpes infections. An example would be Oftan Idu. The indication for their use is herpetic infection of the cornea. In rare cases, individual intolerance to this drug may occur. Side effects may occur, expressed in local reactions (redness, lacrimation, burning), as well as headaches.

It is not recommended to prescribe these drops simultaneously with glucocorticoid drugs, and their use during pregnancy is also undesirable. When taking these drops, you should remember that virucidal drugs are antimetabolites and therefore can inhibit the healing process of the cornea after an infection.

Eye drops with interferon

Interferons. Drugs in this group contain interferons, which have immunostimulating, antiviral, and antitumor activity. The most famous representative of this group is Oftalmoferon. Interferons in ophthalmology can be taken to treat various inflammatory diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, caused by adenoviruses, as well as herpes viruses.

This group of drugs has its own contraindications. In particular, they are not recommended for use in the presence of damage to the liver, kidneys, severe pathology of the cardiovascular system, diseases of the thyroid gland, as well as hematopoietic insufficiency (thrombocytopenia, leukocytopenia). Also, these drops are not prescribed during pregnancy and lactation.

Possible side effects of use include fever, headache, and weakness. Most often, these symptoms disappear after discontinuation of the drug.

Eye drops based on interferon inducers

Interferon inducers. Their mechanism of action boils down to the fact that they stimulate the body’s natural forces, as a result of which the production of antibodies that fight viral infection significantly increases. Representatives of this group include Aktipol and Poludan. These drugs can be prescribed for inflammatory eye diseases caused by herpetic or adenovirus infection.

Contraindications to their use are pregnancy, breastfeeding, the presence of autoimmune diseases and severe damage to the kidneys and liver. Possible side effects include decreased blood pressure, fever, dyspeptic disorders (nausea), joint pain, allergic reactions, inhibition of the hematopoietic process (leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia).

Antifungal eye drops

Fungal eye infections are relatively rare. Most often, the cornea, conjunctiva or lacrimal gland may be affected. A similar pathology can occur in patients who have been taking steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for a long period of time, as well as in severely weakened patients.

In the presence of fungal eye pathology, treatment is not limited to the topical use of the product (Vitabact). General treatment is also mandatory - oral administration of fungicidal drugs.

Hormonal eye drops

These drops are also called steroid drops; they are used as anti-inflammatory therapy, exerting their effect at the cellular level. Indications for their use are often inflammatory eye diseases, which are based on autoimmune or allergic reactions. They can also be taken after burns and injuries to prevent the proliferation of connective tissue.

Quite often, hormonal medications are not taken in their pure form, but are drugs containing both an antimicrobial component and hormonal substances. Among the well-known such combination drugs is Sofradex, which contains antibiotics (gramicidin C and neomycin), as well as a hormonal component (dexamethasone). The antibiotics contained in the drops complement each other, resulting in a wider spectrum of action of the drug. And the presence of dexamethasone increases anti-inflammatory effectiveness and reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions.

There are other combination drugs with a steroid component. Among them are Tobradex, which contains dexamethasone and the antibiotic tobramycin, as well as Maxitrol, which contains two antibiotics (polymyxin B and neomycin) and dexamethasone.

Method and dosage

Among the indications for prescribing combined hormonal eye drops are the following:

• inflammatory diseases of the conjunctiva, cornea, eyelid lesions, which are based on bacterial flora (in the absence of epithelial defects);
• inflammatory lesions of the anterior chamber of the eye (ciliary body and iris);
• as a prophylaxis after surgery or eye injuries.

Contraindications to the use of eye drops will be the presence (or suspicion) of a viral, fungal, or tuberculosis infection. They are not prescribed during pregnancy either. The course of treatment with such drugs is usually limited to 2-3 weeks, since long-term use of hormonal eye drops can develop steroid glaucoma, steroid cataracts, and also increases the likelihood of a fungal infection.

Application diagram

The effectiveness of drugs largely depends on their correct use. Before this procedure, you should wash your hands and prepare a piece of clean cotton wool or gauze. The instillation procedure itself should take place in a supine position.

With the thumb of one hand, you need to slightly pull down the lower eyelid, and with the other hand, drip 1 or 2 drops of the drug into the conjunctival sac. If a small amount of drops leaks out, then they need to be carefully blotted using pre-prepared gauze or a piece of cotton wool.

When instilling, it is important to remember that the pipette or dropper bottle does not touch the eyelashes. All eye drops are produced sterile and therefore it is important to prevent microorganisms from getting from the eye onto the pipette, which will subsequently lead to secondary infection.

After application (instillation), you need to lie down for a while (about 2 minutes), while closing your eyes. To reduce the likelihood of side effects, it is recommended to lightly press your finger on the inner corner of the eye at this time.

Eye drops for children

There are no special medications for children; the same ones are used as for adults, only in a different dosage. There are also certain age restrictions in which some eye drops cannot be taken.

The following groups of drugs are not prescribed for children under 3 years of age:

• means for diagnostic procedures (Fluorescein, Atropine);
• vasoconstrictors (Octilia, Visin, Spersallerg, Allergoftal);
• drops for the treatment of glaucoma;
• alpha-adrenergic agonists (Irifrin, Mezaton).

Under the age of 15 years, drugs that contain the following active substances are not prescribed:

• levofloxacin (Oftaquix, Signicef, L-optik, Levofloxacin);
• ciprofloxacin (Tsipromed, Ciloxan, Tsiprolet, Tsifran, Ciprofloxacin);
• lomefloxacin (Lofox, Okacin);
• moxifloxacin (Vigamox, Moxifur);
• norfloxacin (Chibroxin drops);
• ofloxacin (Floxal drops).

There are also drugs that require careful use in children of all ages. This applies to drugs containing hormonal substances. Eye drops containing glucocorticoid hormones (eg, Betamethasone or Dexamethasone) should always be used with caution in childhood.

Allergic reactions

In some cases, an allergic reaction may occur during administration. It usually appears within an hour after taking the drug. In this case, the following local symptoms may be observed:

• redness of the conjunctiva;
• swelling of the eyelids;
• stinging and painful sensations in the eye;
• spasm of the eyelids.

Also, when using the product, general symptoms may develop, including:

• rashes on the skin of the body;
• sneezing;
• runny nose;
• attack of bronchial asthma;
• development of anaphylactic shock.

If you have the above allergic reactions, you should note the medicine and consult your doctor about selecting another treatment. As first aid for allergies, you can drip antiallergic drugs (allergodil or lecrolin) into the eye, and you should also take an antihistamine (for example, loratidine) orally.

Domestic and foreign analogues

Eye drops are a kind of dosage form of the drug, which involves local use. After applying them to the surface of the eyeball, they are gradually absorbed, due to which their therapeutic effect is achieved. To maintain a relatively constant concentration of the drug in the tissues, regular use of the drug is required - as a rule, they are recommended to be used at regular intervals (for example, every 3-4 hours).

As analogues of the product we can name products that are also intended for topical use. These include other dosage forms - eye ointments, films, gels. These drugs may contain various active substances, which provide a medicinal effect. The most commonly used ointment is Tetracycline (containing antibacterial agents). Films with Albucid are used, as well as gels aimed at tissue restoration (for example, Solcoseryl). Most often, ointments and gels are recommended to be used at night. These forms can be prescribed simultaneously with eye drops as part of complex therapy. In this case, it is recommended to use them with a time interval - first, as a rule, the product is used, then wait about 20 minutes, after which the ointment is applied.

Price in pharmacies

The price of Eye drops in different pharmacies may vary significantly. This is due to the use of cheaper components and the pricing policy of the pharmacy chain.

Read the official information about the drug Eye Drops, the instructions for use of which include general information and a treatment regimen. The text is provided for informational purposes only and cannot serve as a substitute for medical advice.

With the development of computer technology, our eyes began to experience enormous stress. It is not surprising that their fatigue has become a common complaint at doctor's appointments. Eye drops come to the rescue, saving you from fatigue.

Anti-fatigue medications do not require a doctor's prescription, but self-selection can be erroneous and ineffective. Without consulting an ophthalmologist, it is safe to use formulations with added vitamins or moisturizers. Eye drops containing such components will help with dryness and fatigue.

Especially in need of help are people whose professions involve intense concentration, work behind the screens of electronic devices, or inside dusty areas. Drops designed to combat eye fatigue are useful for drivers, doctors, builders, and those who frequently wear glasses or contact lenses.

Drops indicated for fatigue and muscle tension in our eyes can be divided into the following types:

• vasoconstrictors - relieve redness of the choroid;
• moisturizing – useful for dry mucous membranes;
• regenerating (restoring) - from microdamage to the membranes.

In order not to weaken the effect of the medicinal drug, read the method of eye drops:

1. Wash your hands, they should be dry and clean.
2. Lie down or sit down, it will be more comfortable for you.
3. Hold the bottle in your hand for a few minutes to warm it up.
4. Remove contact lenses if you wear them.
5. Move your head back, touch your lower eyelid with your index finger and pull it back. There should be a pocket.
6. Take the bottle with your other hand and bring it a few centimeters to your eye without touching your eyelashes.
7. Direct your gaze upward, drop drops into the resulting pocket (usually 1-2 drops).
8. Rotate your eyeball slightly to the sides, close your eyelids and lightly press on the inner corner of your eye. This will prevent droplets from entering the nasal cavity.
9. The lenses can be put on after 15–20 minutes.

If you use several types of products, then the interval between them should be 15 minutes.

Contraindications

Even harmless eye remedies that save you from fatigue also have their contraindications:

• the period of bearing a child and breastfeeding;
• age of children under 18 years of age;
• personal intolerance to the drug.

The best drugs

The range of eye products that cope with fatigue is quite large, so let’s take a closer look at how to make a quality choice.

Average price: 514 rub.

Release form: 10 ml bottle

Application: 1 drop in each eye 1-4 times a day

Cationorm is a unique cationic emulsion for moisturizing the eyes, which restores all three layers of the tear film, permanently eliminating severe, intense discomfort, fatigue and dry eyes that appear throughout the day, even in the morning, and prevents the further development of dry eye syndrome.

Cationorm does not contain preservatives and can be used in conjunction with contact lenses.

Cationorm is indicated:

- with severe complaints of fatigue, dryness, eye discomfort, manifesting itself even in the morning

- people who wear contact lenses for a long time

- for eye diseases: glaucoma, blepharitis, allergic conjunctivitis

- people using hormone replacement therapy (menopausal hormones, oral contraceptives).

Video: Cationorm

Average price: 528 rub.

Release form: 10 ml bottle

Application: 1 drop in each eye 1-4 times a day, or as needed

Ocutiarz - eye drops with ultra-high molecular weight hyaluronic acid without preservatives to quickly eliminate discomfort and eye fatigue that appears at the end of the day after intense visual work.

Okutiarz is suitable for people with complaints of dry eyes occasionally, in the evening, after intense visual work: computer syndrome in office employees, motorists/motorcyclists, frequent flyers, travelers, students.

- people who have been wearing contact lenses recently, just learning to use them, to make it easier to remove and put on lenses;

- people within 6 months after eye surgery: LASIK, PRK, cataract extraction.

Ocutiarz is stored for 6 months after opening the bottle, it can be dropped onto contact lenses, and it is also often used to eliminate discomfort after ophthalmological operations on the cornea.

Average price: 295 rub.

Release form: Eye gel 0.25%. 10 g each

Application: 1 drop of Oftagel® 1 – 4 times a day, depending on the severity of symptoms until they completely disappear

Oftagel is an eye gel with carbomer in maximum concentration, which moisturizes for a long time, eliminates lacrimation and does not require frequent instillation

- Suitable for people with complaints of occasional dry eyes and/or watery eyes

The gel can be used once at night if it is not possible to instill moisturizing drops during the day.

Average price: 131 rub.

Release form: bottles 5, 10 ml, 4%.

Analogs: “Taurine”, “Tauforin”, “Dibikor”.

Application: 1-2 drops 2 times a day.

A drug with restorative properties, contains sulfur and the amino acid taurine. It stimulates the healing of eye tissue when damaged, reduces intraocular pressure, and normalizes cell nutrition. "Taufon" can be used for eye fatigue.

In the instructions for use of "Taufon" it is indicated for:

• corneal injury;
• cataracts;
• glaucoma;
• retinal dystrophy (disturbance of its structure and function).

Video: Taufon drops - indications, description, reviews

Average price: 337 rub.

Release form: in bottles of 15 ml, 15%.

Analogs: “Montevisin”, “Visoptik”, “Octilia”.

It should be used no more than 3 times. per day, up to 4 days.

The product has a vasoconstrictor effect and reduces tissue swelling. Contains tetrizoline. The action begins after 60 seconds and lasts about 8 hours. Not absorbed from the injection site.

The drops are effective against swelling and redness of the conjunctiva, as well as reducing tension and eye fatigue from bright light. Visine is excellent for allergic reactions.

Contraindicated for:

• glaucoma;
• under two years of age;
• corneal dystrophy.

You should be careful with cardiovascular problems (arrhythmia, hypertension, coronary artery disease), diabetes mellitus, pheochromocytoma.

Pharmacies may offer Visine Classic and Visine Pure Tear. The second option is shown as a drop in the eye from fatigue from working behind a computer screen. Its main action is aimed at eliminating dryness.

Price: from 490 rub.

Analogues: “Oxial”, “Defislez”, “Hilo-Komod”.

Use throughout the day as needed, 1-2 drops into the conjunctival sac.

The solution is based on medicinal herbs (chamomile, sweet clover, cornflower). It is used as drops to relax the eyes, moisturizing the cornea. The action of herbs helps reduce spasm of the intraocular muscles, so they work as a reliever of tension and fatigue after long work.

After instillation, a film forms. It protects mucous membranes from harmful factors (strong wind, dust, ultraviolet radiation). The drug is especially indicated when wearing contact lenses and working behind a computer screen.

It quickly restores damage to the cornea. It has a hypoallergenic effect, but may be poorly tolerated by people with hypersensitivity to plant materials.

Price: RUR 203–552, depending on volume.

There are no analogues in composition.

Release form: bottles of 15, 10, 5 and 3 ml, monodoses in tubes.

Application: 1-2 drops 1-3 times a day. You can bury it at any time of the day. No side effects were observed, sometimes individual intolerance is noted.

Refers to vitamin drops for eyes. Contains pyridoxine, thiamine. Can be used before, after and while wearing lenses. Promotes hydration and reduces friction between the CL and the mucous membrane. Due to this, eye fatigue is reduced; such drops are even good as cleaners from protein deposits on contact optics.

They do not have a chemical effect on the mucous membrane of the eye. Perhaps these are the best eye drops for tiredness and redness. Indicated for dry eye syndrome. They relieve burning, itching, and discomfort by creating a protective film. They are not absorbed into the blood and are excreted with tears.

Video: Mechanism of action of Systane

Visomitin (Skulachev drops)

Average price: 499 rub.

Release form: 5 ml bottles.

It has no analogues in its composition.

Application: 1-2 drops 3 times a day.

It protects the cornea well, so it is indicated for cataracts. This is the only drug that reduces its cloudiness. It increases the stability of the tear film, provides protection from UV rays, and reduces fatigue of the eye muscles.

An effective antioxidant, relieves inflammation. It has a moisturizing effect, as it restores tear production and its quality composition. The drug not only eliminates the symptoms, but acts on the very cause of the development of disturbing complaints. May give a blue tint to the iris.

Affordable

Budget price does not always mean poor quality. The list of inexpensive but effective drops for fatigue includes:

Average price: 25 rub.

Release form: dropper bottle of 5, 10 ml.

Application: 1-2 drops 2-4 times a day.

Average price: 40 rub.

Release form: bottles, 10 ml.

Excellent inexpensive drops that cope with fatigue, redness of the mucous membranes of the eyes and dryness. Create a protective layer on the surface of the cornea. Their characteristics are similar to human tears. They have a high viscosity, and there may be a feeling of eyelids sticking together. Instill 1-2 drops 4 to 8 times a day, after removing the lenses.

Average price: 102 rub.

Release form: bottles 18 ml, 120 ml.

Application: before putting on lenses, 1-3 drops into the conjunctival sac.

The composition includes isotonic solution and chlorhexidine. These are pretty cheap eye drops. Their action is aimed at combating dryness and eye fatigue, especially when wearing contact lenses or working at a computer. Their effect is achieved by creating a thin water-soluble film on the surface of the mucous membrane, which reduces lens friction. Suitable for all types of CL.

Average price: 200 rub.

Release form: bottles, 5 ml.

Application: 2-3 times a day, 1-2 drops.

An excellent antioxidant, strengthens the capillary wall. Reduces the permeability of small blood vessels in the eyes, reducing swelling, fatigue and redness of the mucous membrane. Used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. The drug protects the sclera when wearing contact lenses.

The smallest

Children have the most beautiful and tender eyes, which also get tired and need special care. For eye fatigue, drops are used for children that do not cause irritation and have a good composition without preservatives. Among them, the following drugs have proven themselves well.

Average price: 500 rub.

Release form: 0.45 ml capsules.

Application: 1-2 drops 1 to 3 times a day, taking into account the age of the child.

German homeopathic medicine. Among its characteristics, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects are highlighted. It enhances the nutrition of eye cells, relieves tension, spasm of accommodation (fatigue of intraocular muscles during prolonged concentration), thereby improving vision. Has no side effects. Suitable even for newborns.

Vitamin drops perfectly nourish children's eyes. One of them is “Taufon”, which was discussed above. It is useful for children due to its wound-healing abilities and mild action.

The following two representatives are created exclusively for children.

Average price: 430 rub.

Release form: bottles, 10 ml.

Application: 1 drop 1 time per day.

A Japanese drug with a delicate effect, developed taking into account children's physiology. Does not contain preservatives or dyes. Its pH is close to natural tears. The composition is rich in vitamin B6, L-aspartate.

Rohto helps with fatigue when watching TV and playing long games on the computer. Relieves eye irritation from swimming in sea or chlorinated water.

Average price: 485 rub.

Release form: bottles, 15 ml.

Application: 1 drop 2–5 times a day.

Children from 4 months.

Includes taurine, vitamin B6. It has no contraindications, but cannot be combined with other drops. Quickly reduce fatigue, itching, and eye irritation. Relaxes the muscles responsible for the focus of the pupil.

There are many eye drops available for fatigue. We tried to present the most effective and affordable ones. Write below what anti-fatigue drops you use, why you think they are the most suitable, share with your friends if the article was useful to you.