Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops

Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Combines sodium hyaluronate and ectoine for dual-action dry eye relief
  • ✔️ Preservative-free formula safe for frequent daily use
  • ✔️ Protects ocular surface from environmental triggers like pollen and screens
  • ✔️ COMOD® system delivers one precise sterile drop every time
  • ✔️ Suitable for contact lens wearers — simply remove lenses before use

Price Checker

Regular price £17.99
Sale price £17.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription

Purchase Options

View full details

 

What Are Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

 

If your eyes feel gritty, tired, or persistently uncomfortable, you are not alone. Dry eye syndrome affects millions of people in the UK, and finding a drop that genuinely soothes — rather than just masking the problem — can feel like a challenge. Hycosan dual dry eye drops offer a dual-action approach, combining two active ingredients to lubricate the ocular surface and help protect it from the environmental triggers that make dry eye worse. Available over the counter at £17.99, they are a practical, preservative-free option for everyday use. You can browse the full range of products in our eye care collection if you are looking for additional support.

Manufactured by Scope Ophthalmics, Hycosan Dual is classified as a medical device rather than a medicine, which means it does not require a prescription. The bottle uses a patented COMOD® multi-dose delivery system that keeps the formula sterile without the need for preservatives — a significant advantage for people who use eye drops frequently or who have sensitive eyes.

 

How Do Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops Work?

 

The formula works through two complementary mechanisms. Sodium hyaluronate is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the body's own tissues, including the tear film. It has strong water-retaining properties, which means it helps hold moisture on the surface of the eye for longer than simpler lubricants. Ectoine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative produced by microorganisms in extreme environments. Research suggests it stabilises cell membranes and forms a protective hydration shell around proteins and cells on the ocular surface, helping to reduce inflammation and shield the eye from irritants such as pollen, smoke, and dry air.

  • Sodium hyaluronate (0.1%) lubricates and retains moisture on the corneal surface
  • Ectoine (2%) stabilises the tear film and provides a protective barrier against environmental stressors
  • The preservative-free COMOD® system delivers a consistent, sterile drop every time
  • The combination addresses both the lubrication deficit and the low-grade inflammation often associated with dry eye

 

Who Should Use Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for adults experiencing mild to moderate dry eye symptoms. They are particularly useful for people whose dry eye is triggered or worsened by environmental factors — think air conditioning, central heating, screen use, or exposure to allergens. Because the formula is preservative-free, it is also a good choice for those who have previously experienced irritation from preserved eye drops.

  • Adults with mild to moderate dry eye syndrome
  • Contact lens wearers (remove lenses before use and wait 15 minutes before reinserting)
  • People with environmentally triggered dry eye (screens, air conditioning, pollen)
  • Those who have reacted to preservatives in other eye drop formulations

 

How Do Hycosan Dual Compare to Similar Dry Eye Drops?

 

Feature Hycosan Dual Hycosan Extra
Active ingredients Sodium hyaluronate 0.1% + Ectoine 2% Sodium hyaluronate 0.2%
Preservative-free Yes (COMOD® system) Yes (COMOD® system)
Anti-inflammatory action Yes (via ectoine) No
Best suited for Mild–moderate dry eye with environmental triggers Moderate–severe dry eye requiring higher viscosity

 

Is Hycosan Dual Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

 

Hycosan dual dry eye drops can be used on a long-term basis for ongoing dry eye management. The preservative-free COMOD® delivery system keeps the solution sterile throughout the life of the bottle, making it safe for repeated daily use without the cumulative irritation that preservatives can cause. Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, discard after six months — even if solution remains. If you are managing multiple eye conditions alongside dry eye, it is worth exploring the wider range of products in our allergy and hay fever collection, as allergic conjunctivitis can often mimic or worsen dry eye symptoms.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops specifications
Treatment category Dry eye syndrome / ocular lubrication
Mechanism of action Lubricates and retains moisture via sodium hyaluronate; stabilises ocular surface cells via ectoine
Effective for Mild to moderate dry eye symptoms including grittiness, burning, and irritation
Suitable for Adults; contact lens wearers (remove before use)
Active ingredients Sodium hyaluronate 0.1%, Ectoine 2%
Pack size 10 ml
UK classification Medical device (CE marked)
Preparation Sterile ophthalmic solution
Route of administration Topical ocular (eye drops)

Specifications of Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops

 

What Is Hycosan Dual and What Is It Used For?

 

Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops are a preservative-free ophthalmic solution used to relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Dry eye occurs when the tear film — the thin layer of fluid that keeps the surface of the eye moist and comfortable — is either insufficient in quantity or poor in quality. The NHS notes that dry eye is a common condition that can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and a sensation of grittiness or burning. Hycosan Dual addresses this by supplementing the natural tear film with two active ingredients: sodium hyaluronate, which lubricates and retains moisture, and ectoine, which helps protect the ocular surface from environmental damage and low-grade inflammation.

The drops are suitable for adults and are available without a prescription. They are particularly helpful for people whose symptoms are triggered by prolonged screen use, air conditioning, central heating, or exposure to environmental irritants such as pollen or smoke.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Hycosan Dual?

 

Before using these drops, read the following contraindications and warnings carefully:

  • Do not use if you are allergic to sodium hyaluronate, ectoine, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Remove soft contact lenses before instilling the drops; wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting
  • Do not use if the bottle seal is broken before first use
  • Not recommended for use in children unless directed by a healthcare professional
  • If you have an eye infection, eye injury, or have recently had eye surgery, consult your GP or ophthalmologist before use
  • Discard the bottle six months after opening, even if solution remains

Regarding interactions with other eye preparations:

  • If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, allow at least 15 minutes between applications
  • Apply eye ointments last if using alongside Hycosan Dual
  • No significant systemic drug interactions have been reported, as the drops act locally on the ocular surface

 

How Should You Use Hycosan Dual?

 

Using Hycosan Dual correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose. The COMOD® delivery system is designed to release one precise drop per press — there is no need to squeeze the bottle hard.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle
  2. Remove contact lenses if you wear them
  3. Tilt your head back slightly and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket
  4. Hold the bottle tip downwards and press the pump once to release one drop into the eye
  5. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the drop evenly across the ocular surface
  6. Repeat in the other eye if required
  7. Replace the cap after use
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dry eye syndrome Adults 1 drop per affected eye Up to 4 times daily, or as directed by an eye care professional
Environmentally triggered dry eye Adults 1 drop per affected eye As needed throughout the day

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Hycosan Dual?

 

Hycosan Dual is generally very well tolerated. Because it is preservative-free, it is less likely to cause the cumulative irritation associated with preserved eye drops. However, as with any ophthalmic product, some people may experience side effects. If you are managing other aspects of your eye health, you may also find it helpful to explore our eye care collection for complementary products.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Transient blurred vision immediately after instillation (usually clears within a few minutes)
  • Mild stinging or burning sensation on application

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Redness of the eye
  • Increased watering of the eye
  • Eyelid irritation

Stop using the drops and seek medical advice if you experience significant pain, sudden changes in vision, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the eyelids or face.

 

How Should You Store Hycosan Dual?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the sterility and effectiveness of the drops throughout their shelf life. If you are also managing seasonal allergies that worsen your dry eye, our allergy and hay fever collection may offer additional relief options worth considering alongside your eye drops.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Discard six months after first opening, regardless of remaining contents
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops online in the UK?

You can buy Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £17.99 with no prescription required. The drops are classified as a medical device, so they are available over the counter. Browse our full eye care collection for the complete range of dry eye and ocular health products available for fast UK dispatch.

How do Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops work in the eye?

Hycosan Dual works through two complementary mechanisms: sodium hyaluronate (0.1%) lubricates the ocular surface and retains moisture by binding water molecules, while ectoine (2%) forms a protective hydration shell around cells on the eye's surface, helping to reduce inflammation and shield against environmental irritants. Together, they help restore a stable, comfortable tear film. The preservative-free COMOD® delivery system ensures each dose is sterile and consistent.

How do I use Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops step by step?

Wash your hands, remove contact lenses if worn, tilt your head back, and gently pull down your lower eyelid. Press the COMOD® pump once to release a single drop into the eye, then blink gently to spread it across the surface. Repeat in the other eye if needed, and replace the cap securely after use.

How many times a day can I use Hycosan Dual?

The standard recommendation is one drop per affected eye, up to four times daily. Because the formula is preservative-free, it can be used more frequently if your symptoms require it without the risk of preservative-related irritation building up over time. If you find you need drops very frequently throughout the day, it is worth discussing this with your optometrist or GP to assess the underlying cause of your dry eye.

What are the side effects of Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

Side effects are uncommon and generally mild. The most frequently reported effects include transient blurred vision immediately after instillation and a brief stinging or burning sensation, both of which typically resolve within a few minutes. Less commonly, some people experience mild redness or increased watering of the eye. If you notice persistent pain, significant redness, or any change in vision, stop using the drops and consult a pharmacist or GP promptly.

Can I use Hycosan Dual with contact lenses?

You should always remove soft contact lenses before instilling Hycosan Dual and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in. This applies to both soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses. If you are a regular contact lens wearer experiencing dry eye, it is a good idea to discuss your lens type and wearing schedule with your optometrist, as some lens materials can worsen dry eye symptoms.

Is Hycosan Dual suitable for people with allergies?

Hycosan Dual can be helpful for people whose dry eye is worsened by allergic triggers such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, as ectoine helps protect the ocular surface from environmental irritants. However, it is not an antihistamine and will not treat allergic conjunctivitis directly. If you also suffer from hay fever or allergic eye symptoms, you may benefit from exploring our allergy and hay fever collection for additional treatment options.

What is the difference between Hycosan Dual and Hycosan Extra?

Hycosan Extra contains sodium hyaluronate at a higher concentration (0.2%) as its sole active ingredient, making it particularly suited to moderate to severe dry eye where increased viscosity and lubrication are the primary need. Hycosan Dual contains sodium hyaluronate at 0.1% combined with ectoine 2%, offering the added benefit of ocular surface protection and anti-inflammatory support. If your dry eye is linked to environmental exposure or inflammation, Hycosan Dual may be the more appropriate choice.

How long can I use Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops for?

Hycosan Dual is suitable for long-term use in the management of chronic dry eye syndrome. The preservative-free formulation means there is no risk of cumulative preservative toxicity with extended use. However, the bottle must be discarded six months after opening regardless of how much solution remains, and you should review your symptoms with an eye care professional if they do not improve or worsen over time.

What happens if I miss a dose of Hycosan Dual?

Because Hycosan Dual is used to relieve symptoms as needed rather than on a strict timed schedule, missing a dose simply means your eyes may feel drier or more uncomfortable until your next application. There is no risk of harm from missing a dose. Simply apply one drop when you remember and continue with your usual routine — do not double up doses to compensate.

Can I use Hycosan Dual after eye surgery?

Dry eye is a common side effect following procedures such as cataract surgery or laser eye surgery (LASIK/LASEK), and lubricating drops are frequently recommended during recovery. However, you should always follow the specific guidance of your surgeon or ophthalmologist regarding which eye drops are appropriate post-operatively and when it is safe to begin using them. Do not self-prescribe any eye drops after surgery without professional advice.

Are Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops preservative-free?

Yes, Hycosan Dual is completely preservative-free. The COMOD® (Continuous Micro-dose Dispensing) system maintains sterility throughout the life of the bottle without the need for chemical preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK), which can cause irritation and damage to the ocular surface with prolonged use. This makes Hycosan Dual a particularly good option for people who use eye drops frequently or who have sensitive eyes.

What is ectoine and why is it used in eye drops?

Ectoine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative originally found in microorganisms that survive in extreme environments such as salt lakes. It works by forming a stable hydration shell around proteins and cell membranes, protecting them from damage caused by heat, dryness, and osmotic stress. In eye drops, ectoine helps stabilise the tear film, reduce inflammation on the ocular surface, and protect cells from environmental stressors — making it a useful addition to sodium hyaluronate in dry eye formulations.

What are the latest studies on ectoine for dry eye?

Published clinical studies have investigated ectoine-containing eye drops in patients with dry eye syndrome and found them to be effective at reducing symptoms such as burning, grittiness, and foreign body sensation, with a good tolerability profile. Research has also suggested that ectoine may help reduce the inflammatory component of dry eye, which is increasingly recognised as a key driver of the condition. If you would like to review the clinical evidence, your optometrist or GP can point you towards relevant published literature.

How should I store Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

Store Hycosan Dual below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not refrigerate or freeze the bottle. Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use, store out of reach of children, and discard the bottle six months after first opening — even if solution remains — to ensure sterility is maintained.

How Should You Use Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

Using Hycosan Dual correctly is straightforward, but a few simple steps make a real difference to how effective each dose is. The COMOD® delivery system is designed to release exactly one drop per press — you do not need to squeeze the bottle, just press the pump gently and let the mechanism do the work.

Avoid touching the tip of the bottle to your eye, eyelid, or any other surface to prevent contamination. If you are using other eye drops or ointments at the same time, leave at least 15 minutes between applications and always apply ointments last.

What Is the Correct Dose of Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

The recommended dose for adults is one drop per affected eye. Most people find that using the drops up to four times daily provides adequate symptom relief, though the preservative-free formula means you can use them more frequently if needed without risk of preservative-related irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

There is no single fixed time that suits everyone — dry eye symptoms tend to fluctuate throughout the day depending on your environment and activities. Many people find their eyes feel driest first thing in the morning, after prolonged screen use, or in air-conditioned environments. Using a drop at these predictable trigger points can help you stay ahead of discomfort rather than waiting until symptoms become significant. If you wear contact lenses, applying a drop before inserting your lenses (after the 15-minute wait) can help prepare the ocular surface for a more comfortable wearing experience.

How Long Can You Use Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops For?

Hycosan Dual is suitable for long-term use in the ongoing management of dry eye syndrome. Because the formula is preservative-free, there is no risk of cumulative preservative toxicity with extended daily use — a concern that can arise with some other eye drop formulations. That said, the bottle must be discarded six months after first opening regardless of how much solution remains, as this is the period over which sterility can be guaranteed. If your symptoms have not improved after several weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, speak to your optometrist or GP to rule out an underlying cause that may require a different approach to treatment.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

Hycosan Dual is generally very well tolerated, and most people use it without experiencing any side effects at all. The preservative-free formulation significantly reduces the risk of the cumulative irritation that can occur with preserved eye drops used over time. That said, as with any ophthalmic product, a small number of users may notice mild effects, particularly when first starting treatment.

  • Transient blurred vision immediately after instillation — this usually clears within a few minutes as the drop spreads across the eye
  • Brief stinging or burning sensation on application
  • Mild watering of the eye immediately after use

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

Less commonly, some people may experience slightly more noticeable reactions. These are still generally mild and short-lived, but worth being aware of before you start using the drops.

  • Redness of the conjunctiva (the white of the eye)
  • Eyelid irritation or mild swelling
  • A feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation) that persists beyond a few minutes
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) — uncommon and usually transient

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Hycosan Dual Dry Eye Drops?

Serious side effects are rare with Hycosan Dual. However, you should stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following, as they may indicate an allergic reaction or a separate eye condition that requires prompt assessment:

  • Significant eye pain that does not resolve quickly
  • Sudden or persistent changes in vision
  • Marked swelling of the eyelids or surrounding tissue
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction, including facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or skin rash

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice mild side effects such as brief stinging or transient blurring, these are unlikely to require any action beyond waiting a few minutes for them to resolve. If side effects are persistent, worsening, or causing you concern, stop using the drops and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also report suspected side effects of medical devices to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Do not ignore new or worsening eye symptoms — some conditions that cause eye discomfort require prompt treatment to prevent complications.

Can Hycosan Dual Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant systemic drug interactions have been reported with Hycosan Dual, as the drops act locally on the surface of the eye and are not absorbed into the bloodstream in meaningful quantities. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, you should leave at least 15 minutes between applications to prevent one product diluting or washing out another. Always apply eye ointments last in any sequence of eye preparations. If you are using prescription eye drops for a condition such as glaucoma, inform your prescriber that you are also using lubricating drops.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery