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Hycosan Original Preservative Free Dry Eye Drops

Hycosan Original Preservative Free Dry Eye Drops

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  • ✔️ Soothes dry, gritty, and irritated eyes effectively
  • ✔️ Contains 0.1% sodium hyaluronate to stabilise tear film
  • ✔️ Preservative free formula safe for frequent daily use
  • ✔️ COMOD system delivers precise sterile drops every time
  • ✔️ Suitable for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes

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What Are Hycosan Original Preservative Free Eye Drops?

 

Dry, gritty, or irritated eyes are more common than you might think. The NHS estimates that dry eye disease affects millions of people in the UK, and it can be triggered by anything from screen time and air conditioning to ageing and certain medications. If you've been searching for a gentle, effective solution, preservative free eye drops like Hycosan Original are often the first recommendation from optometrists and pharmacists alike. Available from our eye care range at Cured Pharmacy, this product offers targeted relief without the added preservatives that can sometimes worsen sensitivity over time.

Hycosan Original contains 0.1% sodium hyaluronate — a substance naturally found in the body's own tissues, including the tear film. Each bottle uses a patented COMOD multi-dose delivery system, which keeps the formula sterile without needing chemical preservatives. That's a genuinely useful feature if you use eye drops regularly or have sensitive eyes.

 

How Do Hycosan Original Eye Drops Work?

 

The mechanism is straightforward but clinically meaningful. Sodium hyaluronate is a type of hyaluronic acid — a molecule with a remarkable ability to bind and retain water. When you instil a drop, it spreads across the ocular surface and integrates with your natural tear film, helping to stabilise it and reduce evaporation. This is particularly relevant in evaporative dry eye, which is the most common subtype.

  • Sodium hyaluronate coats the corneal surface, reducing friction with each blink
  • Its viscoelastic properties mimic natural mucin in the tear film
  • The drop helps retain moisture on the eye surface for longer than saline-based alternatives
  • The preservative-free formula avoids disruption to the ocular surface epithelium

 

Who Should Use Hycosan Original Eye Drops?

 

This product is suitable for a wide range of people experiencing mild to moderate dry eye symptoms. It's particularly well-suited to those who have previously reacted to preserved eye drops, or who need to use lubricating drops multiple times a day. Contact lens wearers, office workers, and people in dry or air-conditioned environments often find it helpful.

  • Adults and children experiencing dry, gritty, or tired eyes
  • People who are sensitive to preservatives in standard eye drops
  • Those using screens for extended periods (digital eye strain)
  • Patients with mild dry eye disease as part of a broader management plan

 

How Does Hycosan Original Compare to Other Dry Eye Drops?

 

Feature Hycosan Original Standard Preserved Eye Drops
Preservative free Yes No
Active ingredient Sodium hyaluronate 0.1% Varies (e.g. carbomer, hypromellose)
Suitable for sensitive eyes Yes Not always
Multi-dose sterile system Yes (COMOD system) Varies

 

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

 

One of the key advantages of preservative free eye drops is that they're generally considered suitable for long-term, regular use. Because there are no preservatives to accumulate on the ocular surface, the risk of preservative-related toxicity — a real concern with frequent use of preserved drops — is avoided. That said, if your dry eye symptoms are persistent or worsening, it's always worth speaking to your GP or optometrist to rule out an underlying cause.

Store Hycosan Original below 25°C, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, the bottle should be used within 6 months. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting. You'll find a broader selection of eye health products in our eye care collection.

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 Original Preservative Free Dry Eye Drops specifications
Treatment category Dry eye / ocular lubricant
Mechanism of action Sodium hyaluronate stabilises and supplements the natural tear film
Effective for Dry, irritated, and tired eyes
Suitable for Adults and children; sensitive eyes; contact lens wearers (remove lenses first)
Active ingredient Sodium hyaluronate 0.1%
Pack size 7.5 ml
Strength 0.1% sodium hyaluronate
UK classification General Sale (GSL)
Drug class Ocular lubricant
Preparation Sterile aqueous eye drops solution
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical, into the eye)

Specifications of Hycosan Original Preservative Free Dry Eye Drops

 

What Is Hycosan Original and What Is It Used For?

 

Hycosan Original Preservative Free Dry Eye Drops are a sterile ophthalmic solution used to relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Dry eye is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, leaving the ocular surface inadequately lubricated. Common symptoms include a gritty or burning sensation, redness, blurred vision, and a feeling that something is in your eye. The NHS notes that dry eye is particularly common in older adults, people who spend long hours in front of screens, and those in dry or air-conditioned environments.

The active ingredient, sodium hyaluronate 0.1%, works as an ocular lubricant and tear film supplement. It is a preservative free eye drops formulation, meaning it contains no chemical preservatives — an important consideration for people who use eye drops frequently or who have previously experienced irritation from preserved products. Hycosan Original is available over the counter and does not require a prescription.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Hycosan Original?

 

Before using Hycosan Original, read the following carefully. While this product is generally well tolerated, there are some important contraindications and precautions to be aware of.

Do not use Hycosan Original if you:

  • Are allergic to sodium hyaluronate or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Have an active eye infection that has not been assessed by a healthcare professional
  • Are currently wearing contact lenses (remove lenses before use)

Take care and speak to your pharmacist or GP if you:

  • Have had recent eye surgery
  • Are using any other eye drops or eye medications
  • Experience sudden changes in vision, eye pain, or increased redness
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding (though topical ocular use is generally considered low risk, always seek advice)

Drug interactions:

  • No significant drug interactions are currently known for sodium hyaluronate eye drops
  • If you are using other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between applications
  • Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, including prescription eye drops

 

How Should You Use Hycosan Original?

 

Using Hycosan Original correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose. The COMOD delivery system is designed to dispense a precise, sterile drop each time — no need to squeeze hard or worry about contamination. Follow these steps carefully.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the bottle
  2. If wearing contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops
  3. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward
  4. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket
  5. Hold the bottle tip close to your eye without touching it, and press the base of the bottle once to release one drop
  6. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the drop evenly
  7. Repeat in the other eye if required
  8. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting contact lenses
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dry eye symptoms Adults 1 drop per affected eye Up to 3 times daily
Dry eye symptoms Children (under medical advice) 1 drop per affected eye As directed by a healthcare professional

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Hycosan Original?

 

Hycosan Original is generally very well tolerated. Because it is a preservative free eye drops formulation, the risk of preservative-related side effects — such as chronic ocular surface irritation — is eliminated. However, as with any ophthalmic product, some people may experience mild reactions. If you're also managing other health conditions, you might find it useful to explore our allergy and hay fever range, as allergic eye symptoms can sometimes overlap with dry eye.

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

  • Temporary blurred vision immediately after instillation
  • Mild stinging or burning sensation upon application
  • Slight watering of the eye

Less common side effects:

  • Redness of the eye
  • Feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
  • Eyelid irritation

Stop using the drops and seek medical advice if you experience significant pain, sudden vision changes, or worsening redness. These could indicate a more serious eye condition that requires professional assessment.

 

How Should You Store Hycosan Original?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the sterility and effectiveness of the product. The COMOD system keeps the solution sterile throughout its shelf life without preservatives, but only if stored and handled correctly. If you're looking for other health essentials to keep at home, our first aid collection has a wide range of products worth exploring.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Do not refrigerate unless specifically instructed
  • Once opened, use within 6 months
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not share the bottle with other people

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 Original preservative free eye drops online in the UK?

You can buy Hycosan Original directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £9.59. No prescription is needed as it is an over-the-counter product. It's available in our eye care collection alongside other dry eye treatments.

How do Hycosan Original eye drops work in the eye?

Hycosan Original contains 0.1% sodium hyaluronate, a naturally occurring molecule that binds water and mimics the eye's own tear film. When applied, it coats the corneal surface, reduces friction during blinking, and helps stabilise the tear film to relieve dryness. Because it is a preservative free eye drops formula, it does not introduce any chemical preservatives that could irritate the ocular surface over time.

How do I use Hycosan Original 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 base of the COMOD bottle once to release a single drop into the eye, then blink gently to spread it. Repeat in the other eye if needed, and wait 15 minutes before reinserting contact lenses.

How many times a day can I use Hycosan Original?

The recommended frequency is up to three times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist or doctor. If you find you need to use the drops more frequently than this to manage your symptoms, it's worth speaking to a healthcare professional to assess whether a higher-concentration formulation or an alternative treatment might be more appropriate.

Can I use Hycosan Original eye drops with contact lenses?

You should always remove your contact lenses before applying Hycosan Original. After instilling the drops, wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses. This precaution applies to both soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses, as the drop solution can interact with lens materials.

What are the side effects of Hycosan Original eye drops?

Side effects are uncommon but can include temporary blurred vision immediately after use, mild stinging or burning, and slight watering of the eye. These effects are usually brief and resolve within a few minutes. If you experience significant pain, persistent redness, or sudden changes in vision, stop using the drops and seek medical advice promptly.

Is Hycosan Original suitable for children?

Hycosan Original can be used in children, but only under the guidance of a healthcare professional such as a GP or optometrist. The dosage and frequency should be determined by the clinician based on the child's age and the severity of their symptoms. Always keep the bottle out of the reach of children when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose of Hycosan Original?

Because Hycosan Original is used as needed for symptom relief rather than on a strict dosing schedule, missing a dose is not a clinical concern in the same way as with systemic medicines. Simply apply the drops when you next experience dry eye symptoms. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How long can I use Hycosan Original for?

Hycosan Original is suitable for long-term use in people with chronic dry eye conditions, particularly because it is a preservative free eye drops formulation that avoids the cumulative ocular surface toxicity associated with preserved alternatives. However, if your symptoms persist, worsen, or change in character, you should consult your GP or optometrist for a full eye health assessment.

What are the alternatives to Hycosan Original eye drops?

If you need a stronger lubricating effect, Hycosan Extra (0.2% sodium hyaluronate) or Hycosan Forte (0.3%) may be more appropriate for moderate to severe dry eye. Carbomer-based gels are another option, particularly for overnight use. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right product from our eye care range based on your symptoms.

Can I use Hycosan Original if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Topical ophthalmic use of sodium hyaluronate is generally considered low risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as systemic absorption is minimal. However, you should always consult your GP or midwife before starting any new medicine during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding, to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

How should I store Hycosan Original after opening?

Once opened, Hycosan Original should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat. The COMOD multi-dose system keeps the solution sterile without preservatives, but the bottle must be discarded 6 months after first opening regardless of how much product remains. Always check the expiry date on the packaging before use.

Why are preservative free eye drops better for frequent use?

Preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride, commonly found in standard eye drops, can damage the cells on the surface of the eye when used repeatedly over time — a condition sometimes called preservative-related ocular surface disease. Preservative free eye drops like Hycosan Original avoid this risk entirely, making them the preferred choice for people who need to use lubricating drops more than twice a day.

What is the COMOD delivery system in Hycosan Original?

The COMOD (Continuous Mono Dose) system is a patented multi-dose bottle technology that dispenses a precise, sterile drop each time without requiring preservatives to maintain sterility. It works by using a one-way valve that prevents air and contaminants from entering the bottle between uses. This means you get the convenience of a multi-dose bottle with the safety profile of a preservative free formulation.

What are the latest findings on sodium hyaluronate eye drops for dry eye?

Sodium hyaluronate has been extensively studied as an ocular lubricant and is well established in clinical practice for the management of dry eye disease. Research consistently supports its ability to improve tear film stability, reduce ocular surface staining, and relieve subjective symptoms of dryness. The NHS recommends lubricating eye drops as a first-line treatment for dry eye, and sodium hyaluronate-based products are among the most widely used formulations in this category.

How Should You Use Hycosan Original?

Using Hycosan Original correctly is straightforward, but a few simple steps make a real difference to both comfort and effectiveness. The COMOD bottle is designed to deliver one precise, sterile drop per press — so there's no need to squeeze or tilt the bottle at an angle. Always wash your hands before handling the bottle, and never allow the tip to touch your eye or any other surface.

What Is the Correct Dose of Hycosan Original?

The standard dose is one drop per affected eye, applied up to three times daily. You should use the lowest frequency that adequately controls your symptoms — there is no benefit to applying more drops than needed. If one drop per session does not provide sufficient relief, speak to your pharmacist before increasing frequency.

When Is the Best Time to Use Hycosan Original?

There is no single fixed time of day that is universally best — it depends on when your symptoms are most troublesome. Many people find their eyes feel driest first thing in the morning, after prolonged screen use, or in the evening after a long day. Applying a drop at these times tends to give the most noticeable relief. If you work in an air-conditioned office or spend several hours looking at a screen, using the drops mid-morning and mid-afternoon can help maintain comfort throughout the day.

How Long Can You Use Hycosan Original For?

Hycosan Original can be used on an ongoing basis for chronic dry eye conditions. Because it contains no preservatives, the risk of long-term ocular surface irritation associated with preserved eye drops is not a concern here. Once opened, the bottle remains usable for up to 6 months — after which it should be discarded even if product remains. If your symptoms have not improved after several weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, consult your GP or optometrist for further evaluation.

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

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Hycosan Original?

Hycosan Original is well tolerated by the vast majority of people who use it. Because it is a preservative free formulation, many of the side effects associated with preserved eye drops — such as chronic stinging or ocular surface damage — simply do not apply here. That said, some mild reactions can occur, particularly when you first start using the drops.

  • Temporary blurred vision immediately after instillation (usually clears within a minute or two)
  • Mild stinging or burning sensation upon application
  • Slight watering or tearing of the eye
  • A brief sensation of something in the eye

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Hycosan Original?

Less commonly, a small number of people may notice more persistent or noticeable reactions. These are not typical but are worth being aware of before you start using the product.

  • Redness of the eye or conjunctiva
  • Eyelid irritation or mild swelling
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Discharge or crusting around the eyelid

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Hycosan Original?

Serious side effects from sodium hyaluronate eye drops are rare. However, you should stop using Hycosan Original immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Sudden or significant loss of vision
  • Severe eye pain that does not resolve
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the eyelids, face, or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Marked increase in redness or discharge that suggests an eye infection

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice mild side effects such as temporary blurring or brief stinging, these are usually nothing to worry about and tend to settle quickly. Blinking a few times after instillation helps spread the drop and can reduce any initial discomfort. If side effects persist beyond a few minutes or seem to worsen with each use, stop the drops and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You should also report any suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Hycosan Original Interact With Other Medicines?

No significant drug interactions are currently known for sodium hyaluronate eye drops. However, if you are using any other eye drops — whether prescription or over the counter — you should wait at least 5 minutes between applying different products. This prevents dilution of the active ingredients and reduces the risk of any unexpected interaction. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking, including other topical eye preparations.

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

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