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Opticrom Eye Drops

Opticrom Eye Drops

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  • ✔️ Relieves itchy, red, watery eyes caused by hay fever
  • ✔️ Sodium cromoglicate 2% stabilises mast cells to prevent allergic reactions
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over
  • ✔️ Works preventatively for season-long allergic conjunctivitis control
  • ✔️ Available over the counter — no prescription required

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What Are Opticrom Eye Drops Used For?

 

If your eyes itch, water, and turn red every time pollen season arrives, you are far from alone. Allergic conjunctivitis affects millions of people in the UK each year, and finding something that actually keeps symptoms under control — rather than just masking them — can feel like a challenge. Opticrom eye drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2%, a well-established active ingredient that works to prevent the allergic reaction in your eyes before it takes hold. Available without a prescription, they are a practical, clinically recognised option for managing eye symptoms linked to hay fever and other airborne allergens. You can browse our full range of eye care products if you are looking for additional support alongside these drops.

Opticrom eye drops are manufactured by Sanofi and have been used in the UK for many years. Each millilitre of solution contains 20 mg of sodium cromoglicate, along with benzalkonium chloride as a preservative. The drops come in a 10 ml bottle and are classified as a pharmacy (P) medicine, meaning they are available over the counter from a registered pharmacy without a prescription.

 

How Do Opticrom Eye Drops Work in the Eye?

 

Sodium cromoglicate belongs to a class of medicines called mast cell stabilisers. Rather than blocking histamine after it has already been released — as antihistamines do — it works upstream, preventing the release from happening in the first place. Here is how the process works:

  • When an allergen such as pollen enters the eye, it triggers mast cells in the conjunctival tissue to become activated.
  • Normally, these mast cells release histamine and other inflammatory mediators, causing itching, redness, and watering.
  • Sodium cromoglicate stabilises the mast cell membrane, preventing it from degranulating and releasing those chemicals.
  • With regular use, this reduces the overall inflammatory response in the eye throughout the allergy season.

Because it works preventatively, Opticrom eye drops are most effective when used consistently — ideally starting treatment before your allergy season begins, or as soon as symptoms first appear.

 

Who Is Suitable for Using Opticrom Eye Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for a broad range of people dealing with allergic eye symptoms. They are appropriate for:

  • Adults and children aged 6 years and over
  • People with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (hay fever eyes)
  • Those with perennial allergic conjunctivitis triggered by dust mites, pet dander, or mould
  • Individuals who prefer a preservative-containing drop and do not wear soft contact lenses during use

They are not suitable for children under 6 years of age, or for anyone with a known hypersensitivity to sodium cromoglicate or benzalkonium chloride. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before using these drops. For broader allergy management — including oral antihistamines and nasal sprays — take a look at our allergy and hay fever collection.

 

How Do Opticrom Eye Drops Compare to Antihistamine Eye Drops?

 

Feature Opticrom Eye Drops (Sodium Cromoglicate 2%) Antihistamine Eye Drops (e.g. Azelastine)
Mechanism Mast cell stabiliser — prevents histamine release Histamine H1-receptor antagonist — blocks histamine
Speed of action Gradual — full effect after several days of regular use Faster — symptom relief often within minutes
Best suited for Preventative, ongoing seasonal use Acute or breakthrough symptom relief
Contact lens use Remove lenses before use; wait 30 minutes Varies by product — check individual PIL

 

How Should You Store Opticrom Eye Drops?

 

Store your bottle of Opticrom eye drops below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Once opened, the drops should be discarded after four weeks — even if solution remains in the bottle — because the preservative system may no longer be effective beyond this point. Do not use the drops after the expiry date printed on the label.

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.

Opticrom Eye Drops specifications
Treatment category Allergic conjunctivitis / Hay fever eye symptoms
Active ingredient Sodium cromoglicate 2% (20 mg/ml)
Mechanism of action Mast cell stabiliser
Drug class Cromone / Mast cell stabiliser
Preparation Aqueous eye drop solution
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical to the eye)
Pack size 10 ml
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 years and over
Effective for Seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis

Specifications of Opticrom Eye Drops

 

What Are Opticrom Eye Drops and What Are They Used For?

 

Opticrom eye drops are a topical ophthalmic solution containing sodium cromoglicate 2% as the active ingredient. They are used to treat and prevent the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis — the inflammation of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white of the eye) triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mould spores. Symptoms typically include itching, redness, watering, and a gritty or burning sensation in the eyes. Opticrom eye drops are available over the counter and are suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Opticrom Eye Drops?

 

Before using these drops, it is important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not use Opticrom eye drops if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to sodium cromoglicate, benzalkonium chloride, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • You are under 6 years of age
  • You are wearing soft contact lenses at the time of instillation

Take extra care and speak to your pharmacist or GP before using if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You have an eye infection — these drops do not treat infections
  • Your symptoms include eye pain, significant vision changes, or light sensitivity, which may indicate a more serious condition
  • You have been using the drops for more than a few days without improvement

Drug interactions: No clinically significant interactions with other medicines have been reported for topically applied sodium cromoglicate eye drops. However, always inform your pharmacist of any other medicines you are using, including other eye drops.

  • If using more than one type of eye drop, leave at least 5 minutes between each product
  • Apply Opticrom drops before thicker preparations such as eye gels or ointments

 

How Should You Use Opticrom Eye Drops Correctly?

 

Using eye drops correctly makes a real difference to how well they work. Follow these steps each time:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle.
  2. Remove soft contact lenses if you wear them and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting.
  3. Tilt your head back slightly and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  4. Hold the dropper tip close to your eye without touching it, and squeeze one to two drops into the pocket.
  5. Close your eye gently for one to two minutes. You can press lightly on the inner corner of your eye (the lacrimal punctum) to reduce systemic absorption.
  6. Wipe away any excess solution with a clean tissue.
  7. Replace the cap immediately after use and store the bottle upright.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Allergic conjunctivitis Adults and children aged 6+ 1–2 drops per affected eye Four times daily
Allergic conjunctivitis Under 6 years Not recommended

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Opticrom Eye Drops?

 

Like all medicines, Opticrom eye drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the eye.

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

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation
  • Temporary blurred vision — avoid driving or operating machinery until vision clears
  • Mild eye irritation

Less common side effects:

  • Watering of the eyes shortly after use
  • Redness of the eye (which may occasionally be a sign of sensitivity to benzalkonium chloride)

Stop using the drops and seek medical advice if you develop signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the eyelids, severe redness, or a rash around the eye. If you experience eye pain, sudden changes in vision, or symptoms that worsen rather than improve, contact your GP or an eye care professional promptly. You can also find useful information about managing allergy symptoms through our allergy and hay fever range.

 

How Should You Store Opticrom Eye Drops Safely?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a heat source
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Discard the bottle 4 weeks after first opening, even if solution remains
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label or packaging
  • Do not freeze

If you need to dispose of unused drops, return them to your local pharmacy — do not pour them down the sink or throw them in household waste. For other eye care and health products, explore our eye care collection.

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 Opticrom eye drops online in the UK?

You can buy Opticrom eye drops from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.99. No prescription is needed as they are an over-the-counter pharmacy medicine. Simply add them to your basket and they will be dispatched promptly to your door.

How do Opticrom eye drops work in the eye?

Opticrom eye drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2%, which acts as a mast cell stabiliser. When an allergen enters the eye, it normally triggers mast cells to release histamine — the chemical responsible for itching, redness, and watering. Sodium cromoglicate prevents this release from happening, reducing the allergic response at its source rather than simply blocking symptoms after they appear.

How do I use Opticrom eye drops step by step?

Wash your hands first, then tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid. Squeeze one to two drops into the pocket formed, close your eye gently for a minute or two, and wipe away any excess with a clean tissue. Replace the cap immediately and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any surface to prevent contamination.

How many times a day should I use Opticrom eye drops?

The standard dose for adults and children aged 6 and over is one to two drops in each affected eye, four times daily. Try to space the doses evenly throughout the day for the best effect. Do not use more than the recommended dose without speaking to your pharmacist first.

How long does it take for Opticrom eye drops to start working?

Unlike antihistamine eye drops, Opticrom eye drops work preventatively and may take several days of consistent use before you notice the full benefit. Some people begin to see improvement within a few days, while others may need up to two weeks of regular use. Starting treatment before your allergy season begins can help maximise effectiveness.

Can I use Opticrom eye drops with contact lenses?

No — you should not instil Opticrom eye drops whilst wearing soft contact lenses, as the preservative benzalkonium chloride can be absorbed by soft lens material and may cause eye irritation. Remove your lenses before using the drops and wait at least 30 minutes before putting them back in. Hard (rigid gas-permeable) lenses should also be removed prior to use.

What are the side effects of Opticrom eye drops?

The most commonly reported side effects are a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation and temporary blurred vision, both of which usually resolve within a few minutes. Less commonly, some people experience mild eye irritation or increased watering shortly after use. If you develop severe redness, swelling, or eye pain, stop using the drops and seek medical advice.

Who is eligible to use Opticrom eye drops?

Opticrom eye drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over who have allergic conjunctivitis caused by hay fever, dust mites, pet dander, or other airborne allergens. They are not recommended for children under 6, and anyone with a known allergy to sodium cromoglicate or benzalkonium chloride should avoid them. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your GP or pharmacist before use.

What happens if I miss a dose of Opticrom eye drops?

If you forget a dose, simply use the drops as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed one and carry on as normal. Do not double up doses to make up for a missed one. Consistent, regular use is important for Opticrom to work effectively, so try to build it into your daily routine.

What are the alternatives to Opticrom eye drops?

Alternatives include antihistamine eye drops such as azelastine (Optilast) or olopatadine (Opatanol), which may provide faster symptom relief for acute flare-ups. For broader allergy management, oral antihistamines and nasal sprays are also commonly used alongside eye drops — you can explore options in our allergy and hay fever collection. Your pharmacist can help you decide which approach suits your symptoms best.

How long can I use Opticrom eye drops for?

Opticrom eye drops can be used throughout the allergy season, which for hay fever sufferers typically runs from late March to September in the UK. For perennial allergic conjunctivitis (year-round symptoms), longer-term use may be appropriate under pharmacist or GP guidance. Always discard the bottle four weeks after opening, regardless of how much solution remains.

Can I use Opticrom eye drops if I am pregnant?

There is limited data on the use of sodium cromoglicate eye drops during pregnancy, and systemic absorption from topical eye drops is generally very low. However, as a precaution, you should speak to your GP or midwife before using Opticrom eye drops if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. They can help you weigh up the benefits and any potential risks.

Can children use Opticrom eye drops?

Yes — Opticrom eye drops are suitable for children aged 6 years and over, using the same dose as adults (one to two drops in each affected eye, four times daily). They are not recommended for children under 6 years of age. Always supervise young children when using eye drops and store the bottle out of their reach.

What are the latest findings on sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

Sodium cromoglicate has been used clinically for decades and remains a well-supported first-line option for allergic conjunctivitis in UK clinical guidelines. While newer antihistamine eye drops may offer faster onset of action, sodium cromoglicate continues to be recommended for preventative, season-long management due to its established safety profile and tolerability. The BNF continues to list it as a standard treatment for allergic eye conditions.

How should I store Opticrom eye drops after opening?

Once opened, Opticrom eye drops should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The bottle must be discarded four weeks after first opening — even if there is still solution remaining — as the preservative may no longer be effective beyond this point. Keep the bottle tightly capped and out of reach of children at all times. For more eye health products, visit our eye care collection.

How Should You Use Opticrom Eye Drops?

Using Opticrom eye drops correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose and reduces the risk of contamination or irritation. Always wash your hands before handling the bottle, and never allow the dropper tip to touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface.

Follow these steps each time you use the drops:

If you are using other eye drops at the same time, leave at least 5 minutes between each product. Apply Opticrom before any thicker preparations such as eye gels or ointments.

What Is the Correct Dose of Opticrom Eye Drops?

The dose of Opticrom eye drops is the same for adults and children aged 6 and over. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or as directed by your pharmacist — do not use more drops than recommended, as this will not improve results and may cause unnecessary irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Opticrom Eye Drops?

Because sodium cromoglicate works preventatively, timing and consistency matter more than with fast-acting antihistamine drops. Ideally, start using Opticrom eye drops a few days before your allergy season begins — for hay fever sufferers in the UK, this is typically from late March onwards.

Space your four daily doses as evenly as possible throughout the day — for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and evening. Try to build each dose into an existing routine, such as after meals or before brushing your teeth, so you are less likely to forget. If you are exposed to a known allergen (such as visiting a home with pets), using the drops beforehand may help reduce the severity of your reaction.

How Long Can You Use Opticrom Eye Drops For?

Opticrom eye drops can be used throughout the duration of your allergy season. For seasonal allergic conjunctivitis linked to hay fever, this is typically from spring through to early autumn. For perennial (year-round) allergic conjunctivitis, longer-term use may be appropriate — speak to your pharmacist or GP if you feel you need to use them continuously for more than three months.

Remember to discard the bottle four weeks after opening, regardless of how much solution remains. Do not use a new bottle before finishing the current one if it is still within the four-week window. If your symptoms have not improved after a few days of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Opticrom Eye Drops?

Most people who use Opticrom eye drops tolerate them well, and side effects are generally mild and short-lived. The most frequently reported effects are localised to the eye and tend to occur immediately after instillation.

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation in the eye immediately after use
  • Temporary blurred vision lasting a few minutes after instillation
  • Mild eye irritation or discomfort

These effects usually resolve on their own within a few minutes and do not typically require you to stop treatment. If blurred vision occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has fully cleared.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Opticrom Eye Drops?

Less commonly, some people may notice additional effects after using these drops. These are not experienced by the majority of users but are worth being aware of.

  • Increased watering of the eyes shortly after instillation
  • Redness of the eye — this may occasionally indicate sensitivity to the preservative benzalkonium chloride rather than the active ingredient itself
  • A feeling of grittiness or foreign body sensation in the eye
  • Eyelid swelling or puffiness in rare cases

If you notice persistent redness or irritation that does not settle within a short time after using the drops, it is worth speaking to your pharmacist to rule out a sensitivity reaction to the preservative.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Opticrom Eye Drops?

Serious side effects with Opticrom eye drops are rare, but you should be aware of the signs that require prompt medical attention. Stop using the drops immediately and seek medical advice if you experience any of the following:

  • Signs of a hypersensitivity or allergic reaction — including significant swelling of the eyelids, face, or lips, severe redness, or a rash around the eye
  • Eye pain that is not related to the brief stinging after instillation
  • Sudden or significant changes in vision
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Symptoms that worsen rather than improve after several days of use

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying eye condition that requires professional assessment rather than over-the-counter treatment.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as brief stinging or temporary blurred vision, no specific action is usually needed — simply wait a few minutes for the sensation to pass. If you find the stinging particularly uncomfortable, make sure you are instilling the drops correctly and not using more than the recommended number of drops per dose.

If you experience any side effect that concerns you, or if a mild side effect persists or worsens, contact your pharmacist in the first instance. For serious reactions — particularly signs of allergy or sudden vision changes — seek urgent medical attention. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Opticrom Eye Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been reported for topically applied sodium cromoglicate eye drops. Because the drops are applied directly to the eye and systemic absorption is very low, interactions with oral medicines are considered unlikely.

However, if you are using other eye drops or eye preparations at the same time, leave at least 5 minutes between each product. Always apply Opticrom before thicker preparations such as eye gels or ointments. Inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently using — including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products — so they can check for any potential concerns specific to your situation.

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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