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Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops - 10ml

Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops - 10ml

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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 years and over
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula — safe for driving and daily activities
  • ✔️ Regular use throughout pollen season provides consistent eye protection

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What Are Optrex Hay Fever Eye Drops?

 

If your eyes turn itchy, red, and watery the moment pollen season arrives, you are far from alone. Hay fever affects roughly one in five people in the UK, and for many, the eyes bear the brunt of it. Hay fever eye drops like Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops 10ml offer targeted, localised relief right where you need it most — directly on the surface of the eye. Available without a prescription, this 10ml bottle is a practical, affordable option at just £5.27. You can browse the full range of eye care products at Cured Pharmacy if you need additional support for your eyes this season.

The active ingredient is sodium cromoglicate 2%, a well-established antiallergic agent used in ophthalmology for decades. It belongs to a class of medicines called mast cell stabilisers. Rather than simply masking symptoms after they appear, it works to prevent the allergic cascade from getting started in the first place — which is why regular use throughout the season tends to give better results than using it only when symptoms flare.

 

How Do Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops Work?

 

When pollen, pet dander, or other allergens come into contact with the surface of your eye, they trigger mast cells in the conjunctiva to release histamine and other inflammatory mediators. It is this release that causes the familiar itch, redness, and watering. Sodium cromoglicate works by stabilising those mast cells — essentially stopping them from releasing their inflammatory contents in response to an allergen.

  • Allergen contacts the conjunctival surface of the eye
  • Sodium cromoglicate binds to mast cell membranes and stabilises them
  • Histamine and other mediators are prevented from being released
  • Inflammatory symptoms — itching, redness, watering — are reduced or avoided

Because it works preventatively, sodium cromoglicate is most effective when used consistently. Starting treatment a week or two before your typical hay fever season begins can make a noticeable difference to how well it controls your symptoms.

 

Who Should Use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

 

These drops are designed for anyone who experiences allergic eye symptoms — medically known as allergic conjunctivitis — triggered by hay fever or other environmental allergens. They are suitable for use in adults and children aged 6 years and over. If you are already managing other hay fever symptoms with oral antihistamines or nasal sprays, adding a topical eye drop can provide more direct relief for ocular symptoms that oral treatments sometimes do not fully address. You can explore the wider range of allergy and hay fever treatments available at Cured Pharmacy.

  • Adults and children aged 6 and over with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis
  • People whose hay fever symptoms predominantly affect the eyes
  • Those who want a preservative-free-compatible, non-drowsy topical option
  • Patients already using oral antihistamines who need additional eye-specific relief

 

How Do Optrex Hay Fever Drops Compare to Alternatives?

 

Feature Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops Oral Antihistamine (e.g. Cetirizine)
Active ingredient Sodium cromoglicate 2% Cetirizine hydrochloride 10mg
Route of administration Topical (eye drops) Oral (tablet or liquid)
Mechanism Mast cell stabiliser — preventative Antihistamine — symptom relief
Suitable for eye symptoms Yes — direct ocular application Partial — systemic effect only
Drowsiness risk None Low (cetirizine is non-sedating)
Age suitability 6 years and over Varies by product

 

Are Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops Safe to Store and Use Long-Term?

 

Storage is straightforward. Keep 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. This is because the preservative system can degrade over time, increasing the risk of contamination. Do not use the drops if the solution has changed colour or become cloudy.

These hay fever eye drops are generally well tolerated for seasonal use. However, if you have a pre-existing eye condition such as glaucoma, or if you wear soft contact lenses regularly, speak to your pharmacist before starting treatment. Soft contact lenses should be removed before instilling the drops and not reinserted for at least 30 minutes afterwards.

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 Hay Fever Relief Drops 10ml specifications
Treatment category Allergic conjunctivitis / Hay fever eye relief
Active ingredient Sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v
Mechanism of action Mast cell stabiliser — prevents histamine release
Drug class Antiallergic / Mast cell stabiliser
Preparation Sterile aqueous eye drops solution
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical)
Pack size 10ml
Strength 2% w/v sodium cromoglicate
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 years and over
Effective for Itchy, red, watery eyes due to hay fever and allergic conjunctivitis

Specifications of Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops 10ml

 

What Is Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops and What Is It Used For?

 

Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops 10ml is a sterile ophthalmic solution containing sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v. It is used to relieve and prevent the eye symptoms associated with hay fever and seasonal allergic conjunctivitis — specifically itching, redness, watering, and a gritty or burning sensation in the eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as grass pollen, tree pollen, or mould spores, causing inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelids).

Sodium cromoglicate has been used in eye drops for allergic conditions for many years and has a well-established safety profile. It is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription. It does not cause drowsiness, making it a practical choice for people who need to drive or operate machinery during the hay fever season.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

 

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

Do not use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops if you:

  • Are allergic to sodium cromoglicate or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Are wearing soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses at the time of instillation
  • Have been told by a doctor not to use eye drops without medical supervision

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you:

  • Have a diagnosed eye condition such as glaucoma or dry eye syndrome
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding — while topical absorption is minimal, always seek advice
  • Are using any other eye drops or eye ointments concurrently
  • Experience eye pain, sudden change in vision, or severe redness — these may indicate a more serious condition requiring medical assessment

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant interactions with other medicines have been reported for topical sodium cromoglicate at this concentration
  • If using multiple eye drops, allow at least 5 minutes between instilling different products

 

How Should You Use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

 

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

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle
  2. Remove soft contact lenses if you wear 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 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 (near the nose) for about one minute — this reduces systemic absorption
  7. Repeat in the other eye if needed
  8. Replace the cap immediately after use
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Allergic conjunctivitis / hay fever Adults and children aged 6+ 1–2 drops per affected eye Up to 4 times daily
Children under 6 years Under 6 Not recommended without medical advice

For best results, use the drops regularly throughout the hay fever season — even on days when your symptoms feel mild. Sodium cromoglicate works best as a preventative treatment rather than a rescue remedy. If you are also managing nasal or skin symptoms, you may find it helpful to explore the allergy and hay fever range for complementary treatments.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

 

Like all medicines, Optrex Hay Fever Relief 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 lasting a few seconds to a minute
  • Mild watering of the eye after application

Less common side effects:

  • Eye irritation or a feeling of grittiness
  • Redness of the eye (usually short-lived)
  • Hypersensitivity reactions — stop use and seek medical advice if you develop swelling of the eyelids, severe redness, or a rash around the eye

If you experience persistent eye pain, sudden vision changes, or worsening redness that does not settle, stop using the drops and consult your GP or an optometrist promptly.

 

How Should You Store Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

 

Correct storage keeps the drops safe and effective for the full duration of use. If you are managing other seasonal health products alongside these drops, our ear, nose and throat range may also be useful during hay fever season.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Do not refrigerate unless specifically instructed
  • Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if solution remains
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton
  • Do not use if the solution appears discoloured or cloudy

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 Hay Fever Relief Drops online in the UK?

You can buy Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops 10ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a UK GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for £5.27. No prescription is needed as it is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door. You can also browse the full eye care range for related products.

How do Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops work in the eye?

The active ingredient, sodium cromoglicate 2%, is a mast cell stabiliser. When pollen or another allergen contacts the surface of your eye, it normally triggers mast cells in the conjunctiva to release histamine — the chemical responsible for itching, redness, and watering. Sodium cromoglicate prevents those mast cells from releasing histamine in the first place, reducing or preventing the allergic response. It works best when used regularly rather than only when symptoms are already severe.

How do I use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops step by step?

Start by washing your hands and removing any soft contact lenses. Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid, and instil 1–2 drops into the pocket formed. Close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner for about one minute to reduce absorption into the bloodstream. Replace the cap immediately after use and wash your hands again. Avoid letting the dropper tip touch your eye or any surface to prevent contamination.

How many times a day should I use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

The recommended dose for adults and children aged 6 and over is 1–2 drops in each affected eye, up to four times daily. Try to space doses evenly throughout the day — for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and evening. Using the drops consistently, even on lower-pollen days, gives sodium cromoglicate the best chance to maintain its protective effect throughout the season.

Can children use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Yes, Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops are suitable for children aged 6 years and over at the same dose as adults — 1–2 drops per affected eye up to four times daily. They should not be used in children under 6 years of age without specific medical advice. If your child is under 6 and experiencing allergic eye symptoms, speak to your GP before using any eye drops.

What are the side effects of Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Most people tolerate these drops well. The most commonly reported side effects are a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation and temporary blurred vision lasting a few seconds. Less commonly, some people notice mild eye irritation or a gritty feeling. If you experience persistent pain, severe redness, swelling of the eyelids, or any sign of an allergic reaction to the drops themselves, stop using them and seek medical advice promptly.

Can I wear contact lenses when using Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

You must remove soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses before instilling the drops and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting them. This is because the drops may be absorbed by soft lens material, potentially causing irritation or affecting lens performance. Hard (rigid gas-permeable) contact lenses are generally considered compatible, but if you are unsure, check with your pharmacist or optometrist before use.

How long can I use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops for?

These drops can be used throughout the hay fever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on which pollens trigger your symptoms. Once opened, the bottle must be discarded after 28 days regardless of how much solution remains. If your symptoms persist beyond a few days without any improvement, or if they worsen, consult your GP or pharmacist to rule out other causes.

Do Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops interact with other medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been reported for topical sodium cromoglicate at the 2% concentration used in these drops. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, allow at least 5 minutes between instilling different products. Eye ointments should always be applied last. Always mention all medicines — including over-the-counter products — to your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Are Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops safe to use during pregnancy?

Systemic absorption of sodium cromoglicate from eye drops is very low, but as with all medicines during pregnancy, you should seek advice from your GP or midwife before using them. The same applies if you are breastfeeding. Your healthcare professional can weigh up the potential benefits against any theoretical risks and advise you on the most appropriate option for managing your hay fever eye symptoms safely.

What happens if I miss a dose of Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

If you forget to use your drops at the usual time, simply apply them as soon as you remember. Do not double up by instilling extra drops to make up for a missed dose. Because sodium cromoglicate works preventatively, missing the occasional dose is unlikely to cause a dramatic flare, but consistent daily use throughout the season will give you the most reliable symptom control.

What are the alternatives to Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Alternatives for allergic eye symptoms include other topical antihistamine eye drops (such as those containing antazoline or ketotifen), oral antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine, and nasal corticosteroid sprays for broader hay fever control. You can explore the full allergy and hay fever range at Cured Pharmacy to find the combination that suits your symptoms best. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right approach.

How should I store Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Store the bottle below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Once opened, discard the bottle after 28 days even if solution remains, as the preservative system may degrade over time and increase the risk of contamination. Always check the expiry date on the packaging before use and do not use the drops if the solution looks discoloured or cloudy.

Do Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops work immediately?

You may notice some relief from itching and irritation relatively quickly after instillation, but sodium cromoglicate is primarily a preventative medicine rather than a fast-acting rescue treatment. Its full protective effect builds up with regular use over several days. If you need immediate relief during a severe episode, speak to your pharmacist about whether a topical antihistamine eye drop might be more appropriate as a short-term option alongside regular sodium cromoglicate use.

What is the latest research on sodium cromoglicate eye drops for hay fever?

Sodium cromoglicate has been used in ophthalmic preparations for allergic conjunctivitis since the 1970s and remains a recommended first-line option in UK clinical guidance for mild to moderate allergic eye disease. Current NHS guidance supports its use as a safe, effective, and well-tolerated treatment for seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. While newer antihistamine eye drops may offer faster onset of action, sodium cromoglicate continues to be valued for its excellent safety profile and suitability for prolonged seasonal use.

How Should You Use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Using these drops correctly is straightforward, but technique does matter — especially when it comes to avoiding contamination of the dropper tip. Always wash your hands before and after use, and never allow the tip of the bottle 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 Hay Fever Relief Drops?

The dose is the same for adults and children aged 6 and over. Do not exceed the recommended number of drops or frequency of use. Using more drops than recommended will not improve the effect and may cause unnecessary irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Because sodium cromoglicate works preventatively, timing your doses evenly throughout the day gives the best protection. A practical approach is to use the drops at roughly the same times each day — for example, on waking, at lunchtime, in the late afternoon, and before bed. If you know you are going to be outdoors during high-pollen periods, applying a dose 15–20 minutes beforehand may help reduce the severity of your reaction.

Starting treatment a week or two before your typical hay fever season begins — rather than waiting for symptoms to appear — allows sodium cromoglicate to build up its protective effect in the conjunctival tissue before allergen exposure begins.

How Long Can You Use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops For?

These drops are suitable for use throughout the hay fever season, which in the UK typically spans from late March through to September, depending on which pollens affect you. Once you open the bottle, you must discard it after 28 days regardless of how much solution remains — this is a safety requirement, not a suggestion. If your symptoms persist for more than a few days without improvement, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the drops and consult your GP or pharmacist.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Most people who use Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops experience no significant side effects, or only very mild ones that resolve quickly. The most frequently reported effects are localised to the eye and are generally short-lived.

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation
  • Temporary blurred vision lasting a few seconds to a minute
  • Mild watering of the eye directly after application

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

A smaller number of people may notice the following effects. These are less common but worth being aware of, particularly if they persist or worsen over time.

  • A gritty or uncomfortable feeling in the eye
  • Mild redness of the conjunctiva (the white of the eye)
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) — usually temporary
  • Eyelid irritation or mild swelling around the eye

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops?

Serious side effects are rare with topical sodium cromoglicate, but they can occur. A hypersensitivity reaction to the active ingredient or to one of the excipients in the formulation is possible, though uncommon. Signs that may indicate a more serious reaction include significant swelling of the eyelids or face, severe or worsening redness, a rash around the eye, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these, stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

Persistent eye pain, sudden changes in vision, or symptoms that do not improve after several days of regular use should also prompt you to stop treatment and consult your GP or an optometrist, as these may indicate a condition other than allergic conjunctivitis that requires different management.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild, transient effects such as brief stinging or temporary blurred vision, no specific action is needed — these typically resolve within a minute or two of instillation. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation and introduce bacteria. If you find the stinging particularly uncomfortable, try storing the bottle at room temperature rather than in a cool place, as cold drops can sometimes intensify the sensation.

For any side effect that is persistent, worsening, or causing you concern, stop using the drops and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Optrex Hay Fever Relief Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant interactions between topical sodium cromoglicate and other medicines have been identified at the concentration used in these drops. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, you should allow at least 5 minutes between instilling different products to prevent dilution and ensure each medicine has time to be absorbed properly. Eye ointments should always be applied last in any sequence. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently using, 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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