Optrex Hayfever relief eye drops

What are Optrex Hayfever Relief eye drops?

Optrex Hayfever relief eye drops contain an active ingredient called sodium cromoglicate. This ingredient prevents cells from releasing histamine.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to small particles, which come from flowers, plants and trees, called pollen. When pollen particles get into your eyes, your body may see them as a threat and fire an immune response in the form of histamine.

Histamine is a chemical response which causes inflammation and restriction of the blood vessels. In turn, this causes discomfort and pain in and around the eyes - this is known as allergic conjunctivitis.

By preventing the body from firing this chemical, the symptoms synonymous with hay fever, such as watery and itchy eyes, are greatly reduced.

Avoiding hay fever

While it's often unavoidable, hay fever can be managed with both medicine and precautions.

Staying indoors, while inconvenient, can reduce your risk of developing hay fever symptoms. If this is less than ideal, there are several ways you can prevent allergic conjunctivitis.

Before going out, check the pollen count, which is usually given as part of the weather report. Some weather apps also display the pollen count for your area.

While out and about, avoid areas where there would be a high concentration of pollen, such as parks and fields.

After being outdoors, wash your clothes and hair to remove any pollen which may be caught between the fibres. This can prevent spreading pollen around your home.

Wearing wrap-around sunglasses can protect your eyes from pollen particles, while providing additional protection from sun glare.

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How do I use Optrex eye drops?

You should always wash your hands before applying eye drops to prevent any debris from getting in your eye.

If you wear contact lenses, take them out before applying Optrex eye drops. You can reinsert your contact lenses once 15 minutes have elapsed since you applied the drops.

Tilt your head back, look up and pull your lower eyelid down.

Holding the dropper directly over your eye, gently squeeze to administer 1 or 2 drops into your eye.

Close your eye for 1 or 2 minutes.

Repeat these steps for your other eye if necessary.

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Side effects and cautions

All medicines carry the potential risk of side effects, though not everybody experiences them. Being aware and vigilant of any potential side effects is an important part of your care.

Side effects of Optrex sore eyes may include:

• Discomfort after applying the drops
• Mild stinging after applying the drops
• Short period of blurred vision after applying the eye drops

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. Further information regarding the safety of this medicine can be found within the included pamphlet enclosed with your treatment.

Alternatively, you can view the patient information leaflet online.

If you experience any side effects, regardless of whether they are listed above or in the supporting literature, inform your doctor or ask a pharmacist for assistance.

Allergic reaction

Do not use Optrex Sore eyes eye drops if you are allergic to distilled witch hazel or any of the other excipients of this medication.

If you experience an allergic reaction to Optrex sore eyes eye drops, stop using them and seek immediate medical attention.

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Raised, itchy, red rash (hives)
• Dry, red, and cracked skin
• Tightening of the chest

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist before using Optrex sore eyes eye drops.

Other safety information

Always seek your doctor's advice before you buy Optrex Sore eyes eye drops online.

If you need to use Optrex Sore eye drops for longer than 14 days, speak to your doctor.

Always store the bottle in the original carton away from sunlight.

Take care when handling ocular solutions. If handled wrongly, the bottle can become contaminated with common bacteria and lead to eye infections.

Be careful not to touch the tip of the bottle on your eye or any other surface.

Always replace the cap securely after use.

Do not use Optrex eye drops past the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Do not use Optrex eye drops for more than 4 weeks after opening the bottle.

Never throw away medicine via household or water waste. Ask your local pharmacy to safely dispose of any unwanted or expired medicine on your behalf.

Always keep medicine out of the sight and reach from children and pets.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I forget to take Optrex when I should?

If you forget to use Optrex, use it as soon as you remember and continue to use it as you normally would. Do not apply more eye drops to make up for the ones you forgot.

What should I do if I apply too many eye drops?

If you apply more than one drop to the eye, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Optrex?

While alcohol is unlikely to affect Optrex, alcohol can cause dehydration which may exacerbate the symptoms of dry eyes.

Can Optrex be used with contact lenses?

Remove your contact lenses before applying the eye drops. Wait 15 minutes before putting your contact lenses back in.

Can Optrex Hayfever Relief eye drops be used in conjunction with other hay fever treatments?

Sodium Cromoglicate is unlikely to interact with other hay fever treatments, such as antihistamine tablets or nasal sprays, and can be safely used alongside them.

If you are unsure on whether you can use Optrex Hayfever Relief eye drops with other medicine you are currently taking, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist for assistance.

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Table of contents

What are Optrex Hayfever Relief?

How to use Optrex eye drops?

Side effects and cautions

Frequently asked questions