Murine Hayfever Relief 2% w/v Eye Drops 10ml

Are Murine Hayfever Eye Drops Right for You?

If your eyes turn itchy, red, and watery the moment pollen season arrives, you are far from alone. Allergic conjunctivitis affects millions of people in the UK every spring and summer, and it can make even a simple walk outside feel miserable. Hayfever eye drops containing sodium cromoglicate — like Murine Hayfever Relief 2% w/v Eye Drops — are a well-established, pharmacist-recommended option for tackling these symptoms at the source. Available over the counter for just £4.40, this 10 ml bottle is a practical, affordable choice for anyone who needs reliable eye relief during allergy season. You can also browse our wider range of eye care products if you need additional support for your eyes.

Each millilitre of solution contains 20 mg of sodium cromoglicate (2% w/v) as the active ingredient. The drops are sterile, aqueous, and designed specifically for ophthalmic use — meaning they are formulated to be safe and comfortable when applied directly to the eye.

How Do Murine Hayfever Relief Eye Drops Work?

Sodium cromoglicate is classified as a mast cell stabiliser. When your eyes are exposed to an allergen such as grass pollen, tree pollen, or pet dander, mast cells in the conjunctiva (the thin membrane lining your eyelids and covering the white of your eye) release histamine and other inflammatory mediators. It is this release that triggers the classic symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis — itching, redness, watering, and that gritty, uncomfortable feeling.

• Sodium cromoglicate binds to mast cells in the conjunctival tissue.
• It stabilises the cell membrane, preventing degranulation (the release of histamine and other chemicals).
• With fewer inflammatory mediators released, the allergic response is significantly reduced.
• Because it works preventatively, regular use before and during allergen exposure gives the best results.

It is worth noting that sodium cromoglicate does not provide instant antihistamine-style relief. It works best when used consistently — ideally starting a week or two before your typical hay fever season begins.

Who Should Use Murine Hayfever Relief Eye Drops?

These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over who experience eye symptoms related to seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis. They are particularly useful if you find that oral antihistamines alone do not fully control your eye symptoms, or if you prefer a targeted, topical approach. If you are already managing other allergy symptoms, you might also find it helpful to explore our allergy and hay fever range for complementary treatments.

• Adults and teenagers with seasonal hay fever affecting the eyes.
• Children aged 6 and over (under medical supervision for younger children).
• People who wear hard (rigid gas-permeable) contact lenses — with appropriate precautions.
• Those looking for a preservative-containing, affordable OTC eye drop for regular seasonal use.

How Do Murine Hayfever Eye Drops Compare to Alternatives?

How Should You Store Murine Hayfever Relief Eye Drops?

Proper storage keeps the solution sterile and effective. Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Once opened, the drops must be discarded after 28 days — even if solution remains in the bottle — to reduce the risk of contamination and eye infection. Do not use the drops if the solution appears cloudy or discoloured, or if the seal is broken on arrival.

If you are unsure whether these hayfever eye drops are appropriate for your situation — for example, if you have a pre-existing eye condition such as glaucoma, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding — always check with your pharmacist or GP before starting treatment.

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.

What Is Murine Hayfever Relief and What Is It Used For?

Murine Hayfever Relief 2% w/v Eye Drops are a topical ophthalmic medicine used to treat and prevent the eye symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, including those triggered by hay fever. The active ingredient, sodium cromoglicate, is a mast cell stabiliser that has been used in eye care for decades and is well-supported by clinical evidence. These drops are indicated for the relief of itching, redness, watering, and general discomfort in the eyes caused by exposure to allergens such as grass pollen, tree pollen, house dust mites, and animal dander. They are available without a prescription and are suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Murine Hayfever Relief?

Before using these drops, read the following carefully. There are certain situations where you should not use this product, or where you should seek advice first.

Do not use these drops if you:

• Are allergic to sodium cromoglicate or any other ingredient in the formulation.
• Are wearing soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses — remove lenses before use and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting.
• Have a known hypersensitivity to benzalkonium chloride (the preservative used in this product).

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding — while topical absorption is minimal, professional advice is recommended.
• Have any existing eye conditions such as glaucoma or dry eye syndrome.
• Are using any other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time.
• Are under 6 years of age (or are administering to a child under 6).

Drug interactions:

• No clinically significant interactions have been reported for topical sodium cromoglicate eye drops.
• If using multiple eye preparations, allow at least 5 minutes between each product.
• Eye ointments should always be applied last if used alongside eye drops.

How Should You Use Murine Hayfever Relief?

Always use these drops exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose. If you are also managing nasal or skin allergy symptoms, you might find it useful to explore our allergy and hay fever range for additional support.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the bottle.
2. Remove soft contact lenses if worn.
3. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
4. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
5. Hold the dropper tip close to your eye without touching it, and instil 1–2 drops into the pocket.
6. Close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner (nasolacrimal duct) for about one minute to reduce systemic absorption.
7. Repeat in the other eye if required.
8. Replace the cap immediately after use.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Murine Hayfever Relief?

Like all medicines, Murine Hayfever Relief 2% Eye Drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the eye.

Common side effects:

• Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation.
• Temporary blurred vision — do not drive or operate machinery until your vision clears.
• Mild eye irritation or watering shortly after application.

Less common side effects:

• Redness of the eye (not related to the allergy itself).
• Eyelid itching or swelling.
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia).

If you experience severe eye pain, sudden changes in vision, or signs of an eye infection (discharge, crusting), stop using the drops and seek medical advice promptly. Serious allergic reactions to sodium cromoglicate eye drops are rare but possible — seek emergency help if you develop swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or have difficulty breathing.

How Should You Store Murine Hayfever Relief?

Correct storage is essential to maintain the sterility and effectiveness of the solution. If you are looking for other products to keep in your medicine cabinet, our first aid range has a variety of useful items.

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if solution remains.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label.
• Do not freeze.