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Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops-10ml

Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops-10ml

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  • ✔️ Relieves allergic eye itching and watering with sodium cromoglicate 2%
  • ✔️ Preservative-free formula ideal for sensitive and reactive eyes
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over
  • ✔️ Mast cell stabiliser action targets the allergic response at source
  • ✔️ Convenient 10ml bottle for use throughout the allergy season

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Are Optrex Double Action Itchy Eye Drops Preservative Free Right for You?

 

If your eyes itch, water, and feel irritated — especially during hay fever season or around pets — you are far from alone. Allergic conjunctivitis affects millions of people in the UK every year, and finding a drop that actually soothes without causing further irritation can feel like a challenge. Itchy eye drops preservative free formulations are increasingly recommended for people with sensitive eyes, frequent users, and those who wear contact lenses, because they remove the risk of preservative-related irritation altogether. Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops offer exactly that — targeted relief without the additives. You can explore the full range of products for eye-related conditions in our eye care collection.

These drops come in a convenient 10ml bottle and are available over the counter without a prescription. At £6.79, they represent an accessible option for managing the day-to-day discomfort of allergic eye symptoms. Whether your triggers are pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mould spores, this formulation is designed to address both the itch and the watering that so often come together.

 

How Do Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops Work?

 

The active ingredient is sodium cromoglicate 2%, a well-established mast cell stabiliser used in ophthalmology for decades. When your eyes encounter an allergen, mast cells in the conjunctiva release histamine and other inflammatory mediators — and it is these chemicals that cause the itching, redness, and watering you experience. Sodium cromoglicate works by stabilising the mast cell membrane, preventing that release from happening in the first place.

  • Allergen enters the eye and binds to sensitised mast cells in the conjunctival tissue
  • Sodium cromoglicate stabilises the mast cell membrane, blocking degranulation
  • Histamine and prostaglandins are not released, so the allergic cascade is interrupted
  • Itching, watering, and redness are reduced as a result

Because it works preventatively as well as reactively, regular use throughout the allergy season tends to give better results than using the drops only when symptoms flare. It is worth noting that sodium cromoglicate is not an antihistamine — it does not block histamine receptors but instead stops histamine being released at all.

 

Who Should Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for a broad range of people dealing with allergic eye symptoms. They are particularly well suited to those who have previously found preserved eye drops uncomfortable, or who use eye drops frequently enough that preservative accumulation becomes a concern. If you also experience nasal allergy symptoms alongside eye irritation, it may be worth looking at our allergy and hay fever collection for complementary treatments.

  • Adults and children aged 6 years and over with allergic conjunctivitis
  • People with sensitive eyes who react to preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride
  • Contact lens wearers (lenses must be removed before use)
  • Those seeking a preservative-free option for regular, ongoing allergy management

 

How Do Optrex Double Action Drops Compare to Other Eye Drop Options?

 

Feature Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Standard Preserved Sodium Cromoglicate Drops
Active ingredient Sodium cromoglicate 2% Sodium cromoglicate 2%
Preservative-free Yes No (contains benzalkonium chloride)
Suitable for sensitive eyes Yes Less suitable
Contact lens use Remove lenses before use; reinsert after 30 min Remove lenses before use; reinsert after 30 min

 

How Should You Store Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

 

Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Because these are itchy eye drops preservative free, they do not contain the antimicrobial preservatives that help prevent contamination in standard multi-dose bottles — so it is especially important to discard the drops 28 days after first opening, even if liquid remains. Never share eye drops with another person, and always check the expiry date printed on the packaging before use.

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 Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops 10ml specifications
Treatment category Allergic conjunctivitis / itchy and watery eyes
Active ingredient Sodium cromoglicate 2%
Mechanism of action Mast cell stabiliser — prevents histamine release
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 years and over
Pack size 10ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Mast cell stabiliser (cromone)
Preparation Aqueous eye drops solution
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical to the eye)
Preservative-free Yes

Specifications of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops 10ml

 

What Are Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops and What Are They Used For?

 

Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2% as the active ingredient. They are used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis — specifically the itching and watering that occur when the eyes are exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores. The NHS recognises allergic conjunctivitis as one of the most common eye conditions in the UK, particularly during spring and summer when pollen counts are high.

These drops are classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, meaning you can purchase them without a prescription. They are not a treatment for bacterial or viral eye infections, and they will not relieve symptoms caused by a foreign body in the eye or a physical injury. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are allergic in origin, speak to a pharmacist before starting treatment.

 

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

 

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

  • Do not use if you are allergic to sodium cromoglicate or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Do not use in children under 6 years of age without medical advice
  • Do not use whilst wearing soft contact lenses — remove lenses before instillation and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting
  • Do not use if you have an eye infection, eye injury, or glaucoma without first consulting a doctor
  • Stop use and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 2 days
  • Seek urgent medical attention if you experience sudden vision changes, eye pain, or significant redness not related to allergy

Regarding drug interactions, sodium cromoglicate eye drops have no clinically significant known interactions with other medicines when used topically. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between applications and apply ointments last.

  • No significant interactions with oral antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids
  • If using multiple eye preparations, space them by at least 5 minutes

 

How Should You Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

 

Always use these drops exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Correct technique matters — poor instillation can reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of contamination.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle
  2. Remove soft or hard contact lenses before applying the drops
  3. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward
  4. Gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket
  5. Hold the bottle above the eye without touching the tip to your eye or eyelid
  6. Squeeze gently to release 1 to 2 drops into the lower eyelid pocket
  7. Close your eye gently and blink once or twice to distribute the drops
  8. Repeat in the other eye if both are affected
  9. Replace the cap immediately after use
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Allergic conjunctivitis Adults & children aged 6+ 1–2 drops per affected eye Up to 4 times daily
Allergic conjunctivitis Children under 6 Not recommended without medical advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

 

Like all medicines, these drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly after instillation.

Common side effects:

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after applying the drops
  • Temporary blurred vision — do not drive or operate machinery until your vision clears

Less common side effects:

  • Mild eye irritation or watering shortly after use
  • Localised redness of the conjunctiva

If you experience severe eye pain, sudden changes in vision, significant swelling of the eyelids, or any signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face), stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention. You can find further guidance on managing eye conditions on the NHS website.

 

How Should You Store Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

 

Correct storage is particularly important for preservative-free eye drops, as the absence of antimicrobial preservatives means contamination risk is higher once the bottle is opened. If you are managing multiple allergy symptoms alongside eye irritation, our allergy and hay fever collection has a range of complementary products to consider.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton
  • Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if drops remain
  • Do not freeze
  • Do not share the bottle with another person
  • Do not use if the solution appears cloudy or discoloured

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 Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops online in the UK?

You can buy Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops directly from Cured Pharmacy for £6.79 with fast UK delivery. They are available over the counter without a prescription, making them easy to order from the comfort of your home. Browse our full eye care collection for more options to support your eye health.

How do Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops work in the eye?

The drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2%, which works as a mast cell stabiliser — it prevents mast cells in the conjunctiva from releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals when triggered by an allergen. This interrupts the allergic response before it causes itching and watering. Because it works preventatively, consistent use throughout allergy season tends to give the best results.

How do I use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops step by step?

Wash your hands first, then tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze 1 to 2 drops into the pocket without letting the bottle tip touch your eye, then close your eye gently and blink once or twice. Replace the cap immediately and repeat in the other eye if needed.

What is the correct dose of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

The recommended dose is 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye, up to four times daily. This applies to adults and children aged 6 years and over. Do not exceed the stated dose, and if symptoms have not improved after 2 days, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What is the best time of day to use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

There is no single best time — the drops can be used up to four times throughout the day whenever symptoms occur. If you know your allergen exposure is highest at certain times (for example, during outdoor activities in high pollen periods), using the drops before exposure may help reduce the severity of your reaction. Spacing doses evenly across the day generally provides the most consistent relief.

What are the side effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

The most commonly reported side effect is a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation, which usually passes within a minute or two. Temporary blurred vision can also occur, so avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has fully cleared. Serious side effects are rare but include severe eye pain or sudden vision changes — stop use and seek medical advice immediately if these occur.

How do I manage side effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

The transient stinging that some people notice usually resolves within a minute or so and does not require any treatment. If blurred vision occurs, simply wait until it clears before driving or doing anything that requires sharp eyesight. If irritation persists or worsens after repeated use, stop the drops and consult your pharmacist.

Who is eligible to use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over who experience itchy and watery eyes due to allergic conjunctivitis. They are particularly well suited to people with sensitive eyes or those who have previously reacted to preserved eye drops. Children under 6 should not use these drops without specific medical advice.

Can I wear contact lenses while using Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

You must remove both soft and hard contact lenses before applying the drops. Wait at least 30 minutes after instillation before reinserting your lenses. This is important even though the drops are preservative-free, as the formulation can still interact with lens materials.

What happens if I miss a dose of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

If you forget to use the drops at your usual time, simply apply them as soon as you remember. Do not double up by using extra drops to make up for a missed application. Consistent use throughout the day gives the best symptom control, but missing one dose is unlikely to cause a significant setback.

Are Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops safe to use during pregnancy?

Sodium cromoglicate is considered to have a low systemic absorption when applied topically to the eye, and it has been used during pregnancy without evidence of harm in published literature. However, as with any medicine during pregnancy, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting treatment to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

What are alternatives to Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

Alternatives include other sodium cromoglicate 2% eye drops (some of which contain preservatives), or antihistamine eye drops such as those containing ketotifen or azelastine, which work by blocking histamine receptors rather than preventing histamine release. If your eye symptoms are part of a broader allergic picture, our allergy and hay fever collection includes nasal sprays and oral antihistamines that may complement your eye drop treatment.

How long can you use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops for?

These drops can be used throughout the allergy season, which for pollen-triggered symptoms typically runs from spring through to early autumn in the UK. If you need to use them for longer than a few weeks, or if your symptoms are not well controlled, it is worth speaking to your GP about whether additional or alternative treatments are needed. The bottle must be discarded 28 days after opening regardless of how much liquid remains.

Can Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops be used alongside oral antihistamines?

Yes — there are no known clinically significant interactions between sodium cromoglicate eye drops and oral antihistamines such as cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine. Many people with allergic conjunctivitis use both simultaneously for broader symptom control. Always let your pharmacist know all the medicines you are taking so they can check for any interactions.

What does the latest research say about sodium cromoglicate eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis?

Sodium cromoglicate has been used clinically for allergic conjunctivitis for several decades and remains a well-supported first-line option in UK pharmacy practice. Published clinical literature confirms its efficacy as a mast cell stabiliser for reducing itching and watering in seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis. It is listed in the British National Formulary (BNF) as an established treatment for this indication, and its safety profile is well characterised through long-term use data.

How Should You Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops?

Using these drops correctly makes a real difference to how well they work. Poor technique — such as touching the bottle tip to your eye — can introduce bacteria and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Follow these steps every time you apply the drops.

What Is the Correct Dose of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

The dose is the same for all eligible users — 1 to 2 drops per affected eye, up to four times daily. Do not use more frequently than stated, as this will not improve results and may increase the risk of irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

You can use the drops at any point during the day when symptoms occur. If you know your allergen exposure peaks at certain times — for example, during outdoor exercise in high pollen conditions — applying the drops shortly before exposure may help reduce the severity of your reaction. Spacing your four daily doses evenly throughout the day (for example, morning, midday, afternoon, and evening) tends to provide the most consistent symptom control.

If you are also using other eye preparations, apply these drops first and wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye medication. Eye ointments should always be applied last.

How Long Can You Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops For?

These drops can be used throughout your allergy season, which for pollen-triggered symptoms typically runs from late spring through to early autumn in the UK. Because the bottle must be discarded 28 days after opening, you may need more than one bottle across a full season. If your symptoms are not adequately controlled after a few days of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, speak to your pharmacist or GP about whether a different or additional treatment is needed.

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 Preservative Free Eye Drops?

Most people tolerate these drops well, and side effects are generally mild and short-lived. The most frequently reported experience is a brief stinging or burning sensation in the eye immediately after the drops are instilled. This typically passes within a minute or two and does not usually require you to stop treatment.

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation on instillation
  • Temporary blurred vision immediately after use
  • Mild watering of the eye shortly after application

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

Less commonly, some people notice localised irritation or redness of the conjunctiva after using the drops. These effects are usually mild and resolve without intervention. If they persist or become bothersome, stop using the drops and speak to your pharmacist.

  • Localised conjunctival redness
  • Mild eye discomfort or grittiness
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) — rare

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?

Serious side effects are rare with sodium cromoglicate eye drops used topically. However, you should stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following, as they may indicate a more serious underlying condition or an allergic reaction to the product itself.

  • Severe or worsening eye pain
  • Sudden or significant changes in vision
  • Marked swelling of the eyelids or surrounding tissue
  • Signs of a systemic allergic reaction: rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat

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

For mild side effects such as brief stinging or temporary blurred vision, no specific action is needed — simply wait for the sensation to pass before driving or doing anything that requires clear eyesight. If you experience persistent irritation or any of the serious side effects listed above, stop using the drops and contact your pharmacist or GP promptly. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

Sodium cromoglicate applied topically to the eye has no clinically significant known interactions with oral medicines, including antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or decongestants. If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, allow at least 5 minutes between each preparation and always apply ointments last, as they can reduce the absorption of drops applied afterwards. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

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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