What eye drops are used to treat dry eye syndrome?

Nov 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, dry eye syndrome is an ocular surface disease caused by abnormal tear secretion or excessive tear evaporation. Common symptoms include dryness, foreign body sensation, and blurred vision. Patients may use medications such as sodium hyaluronate eye drops, polyethylene glycol eye drops, sodium carboxymethylcellulose eye drops, cyclosporine eye drops, and fluorometholone eye drops according to medical advice.

  In general, dry eye syndrome is a condition of the ocular surface caused by abnormal tear secretion or excessive evaporation. Common symptoms include dryness, foreign body sensation, and blurred vision. Patients may use medications such as sodium hyaluronate eye drops, polyethylene glycol eye drops, carboxymethylcellulose sodium eye drops, cyclosporine eye drops, and fluorometholone eye drops according to medical advice. Specific details are as follows:

  1. Sodium Hyaluronate Eye Drops

  As an artificial tear, it contains natural moisturizing components that can quickly replenish tears on the ocular surface and form a stable protective film over the cornea, reducing tear evaporation. It is suitable for all types of dry eye syndrome, especially recommended for daily hydration in patients with mild dry eye.

  2. Polyethylene Glycol Eye Drops

  A high-molecular-weight polymer with excellent moisturizing and lubricating properties, it prolongs the residence time of the tear film on the ocular surface, relieving symptoms such as dryness and burning. The formulation contains electrolytes that help maintain osmotic balance on the ocular surface, making it suitable for long-term use.

  3. Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Eye Drops

  Forms a viscous protective layer on the ocular surface to lock in moisture and reduce tear loss, while providing lubrication to minimize friction. With moderate viscosity, it maintains clear vision after application and is ideal for dry eye patients experiencing mild visual fluctuations.

  4. Cyclosporine Eye Drops

  An immunosuppressant that inhibits inflammatory responses on the ocular surface and regulates lacrimal gland function, thereby improving dry eye at its root cause. It is used for moderate to severe dry eye, particularly effective in cases associated with autoimmune conditions.

  5. Fluorometholone Eye Drops

  A corticosteroid with strong anti-inflammatory effects, it rapidly reduces ocular surface inflammation and relieves redness and pain caused by dry eye. It is only indicated for short-term treatment of dry eye with significant inflammation and must be used under medical supervision with careful control of treatment duration.

  In daily life, it's important to develop good eye-use habits, avoid prolonged screen time, and take breaks by looking into the distance every 30 minutes. Maintain appropriate indoor humidity and avoid dry environments that may worsen dry eye symptoms. Regular ophthalmic follow-ups are recommended to review and adjust the treatment plan when necessary.

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