al dew eye drop - Carboxymethylcellulose (NA) medicine

Al Dew Eye Drop

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🏭 Ahlcon Parenterals India Limited 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Nov 11, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for dry eye symptom relief.
Dr. Ravishankar Kumar
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ravishankar Kumar ✓ Verified Doctor
B.A.M.S. (RMLAU Ayodhya) • Ex-Balrampur Hospital, Lucknow
Dr. Ravishankar Kumar
Clinically Verified by Dr. Ravishankar Kumar (B.A.M.S., RMLAU) — View Medical Verification Profile ↗
Clinical Background: Balrampur Hospital, Lucknow (Emergency Medicine) & SCPM Hospital | Standards: CDSCO, Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Sudden loss of vision
  • Severe eye pain
  • Persistent eye redness or discharge
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Eye injury or foreign body in the eye
  • Symptoms that worsen despite using this medicine

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is al dew eye drop used for?

This medicine is an artificial tear solution containing carboxymethylcellulose sodium. It lubricates the eye and provides temporary relief from dryness, burning, and irritation. It is used as needed, usually 3 to 4 times daily.

  • Generic Name: Carboxymethylcellulose
  • Manufacturer: Ahlcon Parenterals India Limited
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 al dew eye drop के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा आंखों की सूखापन, जलन, खुजली और असुविधा से राहत देने के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह कार्बोक्सिमिथाइलसेलुलोज़ सोडियम नामक तत्व से बनी है, जो आंखों में एक सुरक्षात्मक परत बनाकर नमी बनाए रखती है। यह उन लोगों के लिए उपयुक्त है जो कंप्यूटर पर लंबे समय तक काम करते हैं, बुजुर्गों में आंखों की नमी कम हो जाती है, या जिन्हें धूल, धुआं, या एयर कंडीशनिंग से आंखों में परेशानी होती है। यह दवा आंखों में डालने के लिए है, इसे मुंह से नहीं लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में आंखों में अस्थायी धुंधलापन, हल्की जलन या चुभन, और आंखों में कुछ महसूस होना शामिल है। ये आमतौर पर कुछ मिनटों में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी आंखों में लालिमा, खुजली या पलकों में सूजन हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको तेज दर्द, दृष्टि में बदलाव, या एलर्जी के लक्षण जैसे चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग करने से पहले और बाद में अपने हाथ अच्छी तरह धोएं। ड्रॉपर की नोक को अपनी आंख, पलक या किसी भी सतह से न छुएं, क्योंकि इससे संक्रमण हो सकता है। अगर आप कॉन्टैक्ट लेंस पहनते हैं, तो दवा डालने से पहले उन्हें निकाल लें और कम से कम 15 मिनट बाद ही दोबारा पहनें। अगर घोल धुंधला या रंग बदला हुआ दिखे तो इस्तेमाल न करें। इस दवा को दूसरों के साथ साझा न करें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

al dew eye drop Uses & Benefits

Dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) Well-established

Provides temporary relief of burning, irritation, and discomfort due to dryness of the eye.

Computer vision syndrome Well-established

Helps relieve eye strain and dryness associated with prolonged screen use.

Exposure to environmental irritants Well-established

Protects the eye from wind, smoke, air conditioning, and other drying factors.

Post-operative ocular surface protection Limited

May be used after certain eye surgeries to maintain lubrication during healing.

Off-Label & Investigational Uses:

Ocular surface protection during contact lens wear Limited (Off-label)

Sometimes recommended by eye care professionals for temporary relief of dryness in contact lens wearers, but only if the product is approved for this use.

Primary Treatment for: Dry eye syndrome
Also Treats:
Computer vision syndrome Meibomian gland dysfunction Exposure keratitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Carboxymethylcellulose
Brand NameAdd Tears Lubricant Eye Drop
ManufacturerAhlcon Parenterals India Limited
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassOPHTHAL
Action ClassTear substitues
Route of AdministrationOphthalmic (topical eye drops)
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture, or as printed on the packaging.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Use this medicine as needed for dry eye symptoms, but if you need it more than every 2 hours, consult your eye doctor.
2
Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene can complement the effect of this medicine in meibomian gland dysfunction.
3
If you use other eye drops, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between applications to avoid washing out the first medicine.
4
Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination and infection.
5
If symptoms persist beyond 72 hours or worsen, seek professional eye care.
6
Consider preservative-free formulations if you need to use artificial tears more than 4 times a day.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Dryness, burning, or irritation in the eyes
This medicine is commonly used for these symptoms.
Likely Use
❌
Eye pain or vision loss
This medicine is not intended for these symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention.
Not Primary
❌
Redness with discharge
This may indicate infection. Consult a doctor.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionNot established from the available information. Carboxymethylcellulose sodium is a large polymer that is not expected to be absorbed systemically through the intact corneal epithelium to any significant degree.
DistributionNot established from the available information.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismNot established from the available information. Carboxymethylcellulose sodium is generally considered metabolically inert.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionNot established from the available information. Any small amount that may be absorbed is likely excreted unchanged.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionRelief of dryness and irritation is typically felt within a few minutes after instillation.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe lubricating effect usually lasts for 1 to 2 hours, depending on the severity of dryness and environmental conditions.

How It Works

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium is a high-molecular-weight, water-soluble cellulose derivative that acts as a mucomimetic and viscosity-enhancing agent. When applied to the ocular surface, it adsorbs onto the corneal and conjunctival epithelium, forming a hydrophilic, lubricating film that mimics the natural mucin layer of the tear film. This film stabilizes the tear film, increases its retention time, and reduces tear evaporation. By lowering surface tension and friction, it protects the ocular surface from desiccation and mechanical trauma caused by blinking.

Mechanism Steps

1
Adsorption to ocular surface: Carboxymethylcellulose sodium molecules adhere to the corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells through hydrophilic interactions.
2
Formation of lubricating film: The polymer chains create a hydrated, viscous layer that mimics the natural mucin layer of the tear film.
3
Stabilization of tear film: The film reduces tear evaporation and increases tear film breakup time, keeping the ocular surface moist for longer.
4
Reduction of friction: The lubricating layer decreases friction between the eyelid and the ocular surface during blinking, reducing irritation.
5
Symptom relief: The combined effects lead to relief of dryness, burning, and foreign body sensation.

💡 How to Take al dew eye drop

Strength: Ophthalmic solution containing carboxymethylcellulose sodium 0.5% w/v or 1% w/v, depending on the product. Refer to the product label for exact strength.

1Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2Shake the bottle gently if instructed on the label.
3Tilt your head back and look up.
4Pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
5Hold the dropper above your eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket.
6Close your eye gently for 1 to 2 minutes without blinking or squeezing.
7Press a finger gently against the inner corner of your eye near the nose to prevent the drop from draining into your throat.
8Wipe away any excess liquid with a clean tissue.
9Replace the cap tightly and wash your hands again.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is one drop in the affected eye(s) as needed, typically 3 to 4 times daily, or as directed by your eye care professional. The frequency may be increased to every 1 to 2 hours for severe dryness, but only under medical supervision. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the severity of symptoms, underlying cause, and response to treatment.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician or eye care professional for appropriate use in children.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients. However, elderly individuals may have reduced tear production and may need more frequent use. Consult your eye care professional for personalized advice.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment, as systemic absorption is negligible.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required for patients with hepatic impairment, as systemic absorption is negligible.
Maximum Daily DoseNot established from the available information. Use as directed by your eye care professional.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 You miss a dose but remember within a few hours
→ Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with your regular schedule.
📌 It is almost time for your next dose
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double the dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of al dew eye drop

✅ Common Side Effects

Temporary blurring of vision (Common (5-10%))
Wait a few minutes until vision clears before driving or operating machinery.
Mild stinging or burning (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves within a few minutes. If persistent, consult your eye doctor.
Foreign body sensation (Common (5-10%))
This often indicates the drop is working. If it persists, consult your eye doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of the face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Eye infection (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop eye pain, redness, or discharge that worsens.
Corneal damage (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience persistent eye pain or vision changes.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Eyelid swelling
Discontinue use and consult your eye doctor.
Eye redness
If redness persists or worsens, consult your eye doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to carboxymethylcellulose sodium or any ingredient in the formulation","Do not use if the solution is cloudy or discolored","Do not use if the container is damaged"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For topical ophthalmic use only. Do not inject or swallow.","Do not touch the tip of the container to your eye or any surface to avoid contamination.","Remove contact lenses before use and wait 15 minutes before reinserting, unless advised otherwise.","If you experience eye pain, vision changes, or persistent redness, stop use and consult a doctor.","Keep out of reach of children.","Do not use after the expiry date.","If symptoms persist for more than 72 hours or worsen, consult an eye care professional."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Not established from the available information. It is unlikely to be excreted in breast milk in significant amounts, but consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Accidental ingestion of this medicine is unlikely to cause serious harm. If someone swallows the contents of the bottle, rinse the mouth with water and seek medical advice if any symptoms occur. Overdose in the eye is not expected because the product is used topically. If excessive amounts are instilled, rinse the eye with plain water.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after using this medicine. Do not touch the tip of the dropper or bottle to your eye, eyelid, or any surface, as this can contaminate the solution and lead to infection. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before instilling this medicine and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, unless your eye care professional has advised otherwise. Do not use this medicine if the solution appears cloudy or discolored. Do not share your eye drops with anyone else. If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between applications to prevent one medicine from washing out the other. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this product.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly individuals may have reduced tear production and may need more frequent use of this medicine. No dose adjustment is required, but regular eye check-ups are recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It is generally considered safe, but individual advice is recommended.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used after certain eye surgeries to maintain lubrication during healing. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding frequency and duration of use.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific considerations for dental procedures. Continue using this medicine as needed.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
🥗
Use a humidifier in dry environments.
😴
Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from wind and sun.
💧
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
🧘
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to allow your eyes to rest and recover.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

No specific exercise restrictions are required while using this medicine. However, if you experience temporary blurred vision after instillation, avoid activities that require clear vision until it clears.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and E.
Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause temporary blurred vision immediately after use. Wait until your vision clears before driving or operating heavy machinery. Otherwise, it has no significant impact on daily activities and can be used at work as needed.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine and consult your eye doctor if your symptoms persist for more than 72 hours, worsen, or if you experience eye pain, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction. Do not stop using prescribed eye medications without consulting your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe and well-tolerated. It does not cause dependence or withdrawal. However, if you find yourself needing it more frequently than every 2 hours, you should consult an eye care professional to evaluate for underlying conditions such as ocular surface disease or meibomian gland dysfunction. Preservative-free formulations are recommended for frequent or long-term use to avoid potential preservative-related irritation.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Warm compresses

Applying warm compresses to the eyelids can help improve meibomian gland function and reduce dry eye symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Eyelid hygiene

Regular cleaning of the eyelids can reduce inflammation and improve tear film stability.

Evidence: Well-established
Omega-3 supplements

May help reduce inflammation and improve tear production, but evidence is mixed.

Evidence: Limited
Punctal plugs

A medical procedure to block tear drainage, often used for severe dry eye.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interaction between this medicine and vaccines. You can receive vaccinations while using this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✅ DO

Close the cap tightly after each use

❌ DON'T

Do not touch the dropper tip

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. If you are traveling by air, keep it in your carry-on bag. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If you are traveling across time zones, continue using it as needed for symptoms; no strict schedule adjustment is required. Check customs regulations for liquid medications before international travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old software engineer working long hours on a computer
She experienced burning and dryness in both eyes by the end of each workday. Her eye doctor recommended this medicine. She started using one drop in each eye three times a day. Within a week, her symptoms improved significantly. She also started taking regular breaks from the screen and using a humidifier at her desk.
💡 Lesson: Using this medicine as directed, along with lifestyle modifications, can effectively relieve dry eye symptoms.
👤 A 68-year-old retired teacher with age-related dry eyes
He had been suffering from chronic eye irritation and a gritty sensation for months. His ophthalmologist prescribed this medicine. He used it four times a day. After two weeks, he noticed a marked reduction in discomfort. He also learned to blink more consciously while reading.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use of this medicine can provide lasting relief for age-related dry eye, especially when combined with good eye habits.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine provides relief within a few minutes after instillation. The effect usually lasts for 1 to 2 hours.

Q: Can I use this medicine if I wear contact lenses?

A: Remove your contact lenses before using this medicine and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, unless your eye care professional advises otherwise.

Q: Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

A: Yes, when used as directed. However, if you need it more than every 2 hours, consult your eye doctor to rule out other conditions.

Q: What should I do if I experience side effects?

A: Mild side effects like temporary blurring or stinging usually resolve quickly. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, stop use and consult your doctor.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine every day?
  • Will this medicine affect my vision?
  • Can I use this medicine with contact lenses?
  • Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • Can I use this medicine with other eye drops?

🔄 Substitutes for al dew eye drop

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be used as a substitute for prescription eye medications.
    Fact: This medicine is a lubricant and does not treat infections or inflammation. It should not replace prescribed treatments.
  • Myth: Using this medicine frequently is harmful.
    Fact: When used as directed, this medicine is safe for frequent use. However, consult your eye doctor if you need it more than every 2 hours.
  • Myth: This medicine can be shared with others.
    Fact: Eye drops should never be shared to prevent the spread of infection.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Carboxymethylcellulose sodium 0.5% eye drops
  • Carboxymethylcellulose sodium 1% eye drops

Brand Alternatives

  • Add Fresh Tears Eye Drop

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

MedicineClassDurationPreservativeContact Lens
Carboxymethylcellulose sodiumArtificial tear (cellulose derivative)1-2 hoursMay be preservative-free or contain preservativeRemove before use; wait 15 minutes
Hydroxypropyl methylcelluloseArtificial tear (cellulose derivative)1-2 hoursOften contains preservativeRemove before use; wait 15 minutes
Sodium hyaluronateArtificial tear (glycosaminoglycan)2-4 hoursOften preservative-freeRemove before use; wait 15 minutes

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