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Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes

Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes

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  • ✔️ Lubricates dry eyes with sodium hyaluronate for lasting comfort
  • ✔️ Soothes tired, fatigued eyes with eyebright extract
  • ✔️ Suitable for contact lens wearers — remove lenses before use
  • ✔️ Relieves dryness caused by screens, air conditioning, and wind
  • ✔️ Dual-action formula addresses both dryness and eye fatigue

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What Are Optrex Dry and Tired Eyes Drops?

 

Dry, gritty, or heavy-feeling eyes are something many of us deal with daily — whether it's from staring at a screen for hours, sitting in an air-conditioned office, or simply not blinking enough. Optrex dry and tired eyes drops offer a dual-action approach to this common problem, combining a lubricating agent with a traditional botanical extract to help restore comfort and freshness to your eyes. Available over the counter without a prescription, this product is a practical option for adults and older teenagers who need reliable, everyday eye relief. You can browse the full range of products in our eye care collection if you're looking for additional support.

Dry eye is surprisingly common in the UK. The NHS notes that dry eye syndrome can affect anyone, though it becomes more frequent with age and is often linked to environmental factors, prolonged screen use, and certain medications. Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes is designed to address both the physical dryness and the fatigue that often accompanies it — making it a versatile choice for everyday use.

 

How Does Optrex Double Action Work in the Eye?

 

The formulation works through two complementary mechanisms. Sodium hyaluronate — a naturally occurring substance found in the body — acts as a lubricant and humectant, drawing moisture to the ocular surface and helping to stabilise the tear film. Eyebright (Euphrasia) extract has a long history of traditional use in soothing tired, irritated eyes. Together, these ingredients address both the structural and symptomatic aspects of dry, fatigued eyes.

  • Sodium hyaluronate coats the eye surface, reducing friction and discomfort
  • The tear film is temporarily stabilised, helping to prevent rapid evaporation of moisture
  • Eyebright extract provides a soothing, refreshing sensation
  • The drops are preservative-free in formulation, making them gentler for regular use

 

Who Should Use Optrex Double Action Eye Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for a wide range of people who experience occasional or persistent dryness and eye fatigue. They're particularly useful if your symptoms are linked to lifestyle factors rather than an underlying medical condition. That said, if your dry eye symptoms are severe, long-standing, or accompanied by pain or vision changes, it's worth speaking to your GP or optometrist before relying solely on over-the-counter drops.

  • Adults and young people over 12 years of age
  • Those who spend extended periods in front of screens (digital eye strain)
  • People in dry, air-conditioned, or heated environments
  • Contact lens wearers (remove lenses before use)
  • Those experiencing mild, occasional dry eye symptoms

 

How Does Optrex Double Action Compare to Other Dry Eye Drops?

 

Feature Optrex Double Action Standard Hypromellose Drops
Active ingredients Sodium hyaluronate + Eyebright extract Hypromellose 0.3%
Dual action Yes — lubricates and soothes No — lubricates only
Suitable for contact lens wearers Yes (remove lenses first) Varies by product
Prescription required No — OTC No — OTC

 

How Should You Store Optrex Double Action Eye Drops?

 

Store the drops below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Once opened, the bottle should be discarded after 28 days — even if there is product remaining — to reduce the risk of contamination and infection. Do not use the drops if the solution appears cloudy or discoloured, or if the seal has been broken before purchase.

If you wear soft contact lenses, always remove them before instilling Optrex dry and tired eyes drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting. This is important because some components of the formulation may be absorbed by soft lens material, potentially causing irritation or lens damage.

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.

Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes specifications
Treatment category Dry eye / Ocular lubricant
Mechanism of action Lubricates and soothes the ocular surface via sodium hyaluronate and eyebright extract
Effective for Dry, gritty, tired, and irritated eyes
Suitable for Adults and children over 12 years
Active ingredient Sodium hyaluronate 0.1%, Euphrasia (eyebright) extract
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Ocular lubricant / Demulcent
Preparation Sterile aqueous eye drops solution
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical, into the eye)

Specifications of Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes

 

What Is Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes and What Is It Used For?

 

Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes is an over-the-counter sterile eye drop solution used to relieve the symptoms of dry and tired eyes. It contains two active components — sodium hyaluronate and eyebright (Euphrasia) extract — which work together to lubricate the eye surface and soothe feelings of fatigue and irritation. The NHS describes dry eye syndrome as a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, or where tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, grittiness, and blurred vision. This product is intended to provide symptomatic relief rather than treat any underlying cause.

It is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription. It is not a treatment for eye infections, allergies, or any diagnosed ocular disease. If you're unsure whether your symptoms are due to simple dryness or something more serious, a pharmacist or optometrist can help you decide on the right course of action.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Double Action Eye Drops?

 

Before using these drops, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not use this product if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to sodium hyaluronate, eyebright extract, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • You have a known eye infection — drops will not treat infection and may worsen it
  • You are under 12 years of age (seek medical advice first)
  • You have had recent eye surgery — consult your surgeon or ophthalmologist before use
  • You are wearing soft contact lenses at the time of instillation

There are no known significant drug interactions with Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes. However, if you are using any other eye drops or eye ointments, allow at least five minutes between applications to avoid diluting the effect of either product. Eye ointments should always be applied last. If you are using prescription eye drops for a diagnosed condition, speak to your pharmacist before adding any OTC drops to your routine. You might also find it helpful to explore our wider eye care range for complementary products.

 

How Should You Use Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

 

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

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle
  2. Remove soft contact lenses if you are wearing them
  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 above the eye and instil one to two drops into the pocket
  6. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the drops evenly
  7. Repeat in the other eye if needed
  8. Replace the cap immediately after use
  9. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting contact lenses
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dry, tired eyes Adults and children over 12 1–2 drops per eye As needed throughout the day
Dry, tired eyes Under 12 years Not recommended without medical advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

 

Side effects with this product are uncommon, but as with any medicine applied to the eye, some people may notice mild reactions. Most are temporary and resolve quickly after instillation.

Common side effects:

  • Temporary blurred vision immediately after applying the drops
  • Mild stinging or burning sensation on instillation
  • Watering of the eyes shortly after use

Less common side effects:

  • Redness or irritation that persists beyond a few minutes
  • Feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
  • Eyelid swelling or discomfort — this may indicate an allergic reaction

If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction — such as swelling around the eye, severe redness, or difficulty breathing — stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention. The NHS advises that any sudden change in vision or eye pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional promptly. If you're managing other health concerns alongside eye symptoms, our allergy and hay fever range may also be relevant, as allergic reactions can sometimes affect the eyes.

 

How Should You Store Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Do not refrigerate unless specifically instructed on the packaging
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if product remains
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
  • Do not share the bottle with others — this reduces the risk of cross-contamination

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 Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes online in the UK?

You can buy Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £10.19. No prescription is needed as it is a General Sale List medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door.

How do Optrex dry and tired eyes drops work in the eye?

The drops contain sodium hyaluronate, which lubricates and stabilises the tear film on the surface of the eye, reducing friction and dryness. Eyebright (Euphrasia) extract complements this by providing a soothing, refreshing effect on tired, irritated eyes. Together, these two ingredients address both the physical and symptomatic aspects of dry eye discomfort.

How do I use Optrex Double Action eye drops step by step?

Wash your hands, tilt your head back, and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Instil one to two drops into each affected eye, then blink gently to spread the solution across the eye surface. Replace the cap immediately and wait 15 minutes before reinserting contact lenses if you wear them.

How often can I use Optrex dry and tired eyes drops throughout the day?

You can use the drops as frequently as needed to relieve symptoms of dryness and fatigue — there is no strict maximum number of daily applications for lubricating drops of this type. However, if you find you need them very frequently or your symptoms are not improving, it is worth speaking to a pharmacist or GP. Persistent dry eye may have an underlying cause that needs addressing.

Can I use Optrex Double Action drops while wearing contact lenses?

You should always remove soft contact lenses before applying these drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. This is because some components of the formulation may be absorbed by soft lens material, which could cause irritation or affect lens performance. If you wear hard (rigid gas-permeable) lenses, seek advice from your optician before use.

What are the side effects of Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

Side effects are uncommon but may include temporary blurred vision, mild stinging, or a watering sensation immediately after instillation — these usually resolve within a minute or two. Less commonly, some people experience persistent redness, irritation, or a foreign body sensation. If you notice swelling around the eye or any signs of an allergic reaction, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.

Who is Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes suitable for?

The drops are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who experience dry or tired eyes due to environmental factors, screen use, or general eye fatigue. They are not recommended for children under 12 without medical advice, and should not be used by anyone with a known allergy to any of the ingredients. If you have had recent eye surgery or have a diagnosed eye condition, consult your ophthalmologist first.

What is the best time to use Optrex Double Action eye drops?

There is no single "best" time — you can use the drops whenever your eyes feel dry, heavy, or fatigued. Many people find them particularly helpful during or after prolonged screen use, in air-conditioned environments, or at the end of a long day. Using them proactively before known triggers (such as a long flight or a day in a dry office) can also help maintain comfort.

How long can I use Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes for?

The drops can be used on an ongoing basis for symptomatic relief, as they are a lubricant rather than a medicated treatment. However, each bottle must be discarded 28 days after opening to prevent contamination. If your symptoms persist for more than a few days without improvement, or if they worsen, consult a pharmacist or GP to rule out an underlying condition.

What happens if I accidentally use too many drops in my eye?

Using more drops than needed is unlikely to cause serious harm, as the product is a lubricant rather than a potent medication. Excess solution will simply overflow from the eye. If you experience any unusual discomfort, persistent blurred vision, or irritation after using too many drops, rinse your eye gently with clean water and contact a pharmacist for advice.

Can I use Optrex Double Action drops if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

There is no specific evidence that Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes is harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the active ingredients are applied topically to the eye in small amounts. However, as with any medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is always best to consult your GP or midwife before use. They can help you weigh up the benefits and any potential risks for your individual situation.

Are there any medicines that interact with Optrex Double Action eye drops?

No significant drug interactions are known for this product. If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, allow at least five minutes between applications to prevent one product diluting the other. Eye ointments should always be applied last. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are using, including prescription eye drops, to ensure there are no concerns specific to your situation.

What are the alternatives to Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

Alternatives include hypromellose 0.3% eye drops, which are a widely used NHS-recommended lubricant for dry eyes, as well as carbomer gel drops for longer-lasting relief. Sodium hyaluronate drops from other brands are also available. You can explore the full range of options in our eye care collection to find the product that best suits your needs.

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

Sodium hyaluronate is well-established in the management of dry eye disease and is recommended in clinical guidelines as an effective ocular lubricant. Research published in peer-reviewed ophthalmology journals consistently supports its ability to improve tear film stability and reduce ocular surface discomfort. The NHS includes lubricating eye drops containing sodium hyaluronate among the recommended treatments for dry eye syndrome.

Can digital eye strain cause dry and tired eyes, and will these drops help?

Yes — prolonged screen use is one of the most common causes of dry and tired eyes, partly because people blink less frequently when focusing on a screen, which leads to faster tear evaporation. Optrex dry and tired eyes drops can help relieve the discomfort associated with digital eye strain by replenishing moisture on the eye surface. Taking regular screen breaks and following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can also help, as recommended by the NHS. If you're also experiencing headaches or other symptoms alongside eye fatigue, our pain relief range may offer additional support.

How Should You Use Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

Using eye drops correctly is essential to getting the most out of them and avoiding contamination. Always wash your hands thoroughly 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 apply the drops:

What Is the Correct Dose of Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

The recommended dose is one to two drops instilled into each affected eye as needed. There is no fixed maximum number of daily applications for this lubricating product, but you should use the minimum amount needed to achieve comfort. If you are using other eye drops at the same time, leave at least five minutes between different products.

When Is the Best Time to Use Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

You can use the drops at any point during the day when your eyes feel dry, heavy, or fatigued. Many people find them most helpful during or after prolonged screen use, in air-conditioned or heated environments, or after spending time outdoors in windy conditions. Using them proactively before known triggers — such as a long flight or a day in a dry office — can help maintain comfort throughout the day.

If you also use eye ointment at night for dry eyes, apply the ointment last, after any drops, as ointments can prevent drops from being absorbed properly if applied first.

How Long Can You Use Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes For?

This product can be used on an ongoing basis for the symptomatic relief of dry and tired eyes, as it is a lubricant rather than a medicated treatment. However, every bottle must be discarded 28 days after first opening, regardless of how much product remains, to prevent bacterial contamination and the risk of eye infection.

If your symptoms do not improve after a few days of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the drops and consult a pharmacist or GP. Persistent dry eye may have an underlying cause — such as blepharitis, Sjögren's syndrome, or a medication side effect — that requires a different approach to management.

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 Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

Most people use Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes without experiencing any side effects. When reactions do occur, they are usually mild and short-lived, resolving within a minute or two of instillation. You should not be alarmed if you notice any of the following immediately after applying the drops.

  • Temporary blurred vision immediately after instillation
  • Mild stinging or burning sensation in the eye
  • Watering or tearing of the eye shortly after use
  • A brief sensation of something in the eye

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

Less commonly, some people may experience reactions that persist beyond the first minute or two after applying the drops. These are not typical and may suggest that the product is not suitable for you, or that something else is contributing to your eye symptoms.

  • Persistent redness or irritation of the eye
  • Prolonged foreign body sensation (feeling of grit or something in the eye)
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Eyelid swelling or puffiness
  • Discharge from the eye

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes?

Serious side effects are rare with this product, but they can occur. Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis or severe hypersensitivity) include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread skin rash. These require immediate emergency medical attention — call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department without delay.

Any sudden change in vision, significant eye pain, or marked increase in redness that does not settle quickly should also be assessed by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. These symptoms could indicate a more serious eye condition that needs prompt treatment.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Optrex Double Action Eye Drops?

If you experience mild side effects such as brief stinging or temporary blurred vision, these are generally nothing to worry about and should resolve quickly. You can rinse your eye gently with clean, lukewarm water if the discomfort persists. If symptoms do not settle within a few minutes, stop using the drops and contact your pharmacist for advice.

For more persistent or concerning side effects, stop using the product immediately and seek advice from your GP or optometrist. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk — this helps improve the safety monitoring of medicines available in the UK.

Can Optrex Double Action Eye Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No significant interactions between Optrex Double Action For Dry and Tired Eyes and other medicines are currently known. However, if you are using other eye drops — whether prescription or over-the-counter — you should leave at least five minutes between applying different products. This prevents one drop from washing out the other before it has had time to work. Eye ointments should always be applied last in any eye care routine, as they form a barrier that can prevent other products from being absorbed. Always tell your pharmacist about all the medicines you are currently using, including eye preparations, to ensure your routine is safe and effective.

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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