Pharmacist's Verdict
Refresh Tears is a reliable and effective standard eye drop for relieving mild to moderate dry eye symptoms. It's a safe and affordable first-choice lubricant for general eye dryness and irritation.
Ingredient Analysis
Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provides immediate, soothing relief for dry, irritated eyes.
- Widely available over-the-counter and generally affordable.
- Safe for most people with very few side effects.
- Preservative-free formulas are available, which are great for sensitive eyes or frequent use.
Cons
- Relief is temporary, often requiring reapplication every few hours.
- Can cause temporary blurry vision immediately after putting the drops in.
- Multi-dose bottles contain preservatives that may irritate very sensitive eyes with frequent use.
- Only treats the symptoms of dry eye, not the underlying cause.
Safety Information
Warnings
Warnings For external use only. To avoid contamination, do not touch tip of container to any surface. Replace cap after using. If solution changes color or becomes cloudy, do not use. Stop use and ask a doctor if you experience eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness or irritation of the eye, or if the condition worsens or persists for more than 72 hours. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Is Refresh Tears safe for you?
See pregnancy, interactions, and common concerns answered in our pharmacist safety FAQ.
Read safety review →References
- 1.FDA Drug Label — TheraTears Dry and Tired
FDA DailyMed: TheraTears Dry and Tired · FDA
- 2.FDA Drug Label — REFRESH TEARS
FDA DailyMed: REFRESH TEARS · FDA
- 3.Artificial Tears: A Systematic Review.
Semp DA, Beeson D, Sheppard AL, et al., Clinical optometry, 2023 · PubMed
- 4.A systematic review of Radiesse® (calcium hydroxylapatite): evidence and recommendations for the body.
Galadari H, Guida S, International journal of dermatology, 2024 · PubMed
- 5.A systematic review of Radiesse/calcium hydroxylapatite and carboxymethylcellulose: evidence and recommendations for treatment of the face.
Guida S, Galadari H, International journal of dermatology, 2024 · PubMed
- 6.Focus on the Primary Prevention of Intrauterine Adhesions: Current Concept and Vision.
Lee WL, Liu CH, Cheng M, et al., International journal of molecular sciences, 2021 · PubMed