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Viscotears Gel For Dry Eye Treatment - 10g

Viscotears Gel For Dry Eye Treatment - 10g

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  • ✔️ Soothes dry, gritty, and irritated eyes effectively
  • ✔️ Carbomer gel stays on the eye surface longer
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children over two years
  • ✔️ Relieves dry eye caused by screens or dry environments
  • ✔️ Discard-safe tube lasts four weeks after opening

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Is Viscotears Gel Dry Eye the Right Treatment for You?

 

Dry eye is more common than many people realise. The NHS estimates that millions of people in the UK experience symptoms at some point in their lives — that persistent grittiness, the burning sensation, or the feeling that something is stuck in your eye. Viscotears gel dry eye treatment is a well-established, over-the-counter carbomer gel designed to relieve exactly those symptoms. At just £2.59 for a 10g tube, it offers accessible, clinically recognised relief without the need for a prescription. If you're exploring your options, our eye care collection includes a range of products to suit different levels of dry eye severity.

Viscotears contains carbomer 980 (polyacrylic acid) at a concentration of 0.2%, along with cetrimide as a preservative. It is classified as a P (pharmacy) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription but should ideally be discussed with a pharmacist if you have any underlying eye conditions.

 

How Does Viscotears Gel Work to Relieve Dry Eyes?

 

The tear film that coats your eye has three layers — an oily outer layer, a watery middle layer, and a mucin inner layer. When any of these layers is disrupted or insufficient, you get dry eye symptoms. Viscotears works by supplementing and stabilising this tear film.

  • Carbomer 980 is a high-molecular-weight polymer that forms a viscous, gel-like layer on the ocular surface.
  • This gel layer mimics the mucin component of the natural tear film, helping to retain moisture.
  • The gel's consistency means it stays on the eye surface longer than thinner, watery drops — providing more sustained lubrication.
  • It reduces friction between the eyelid and the cornea, easing that characteristic gritty or scratchy sensation.

Because the gel is thicker than standard artificial tears, it can cause brief blurring of vision immediately after application. This is normal and usually clears within a minute or two.

 

Who Should Use Viscotears Gel and Is It Right for You?

 

Viscotears is suitable for adults and children over the age of two, though it's most commonly used by adults. It's particularly helpful if you find that thinner eye drops don't last long enough, or if your symptoms are more persistent throughout the day. People who spend long hours in front of screens, work in air-conditioned environments, or live in dry climates often find carbomer gels more effective than standard drops.

  • Adults with mild to moderate dry eye syndrome
  • People whose symptoms worsen in air-conditioned or heated environments
  • Those who have tried thinner eye drops without sufficient relief
  • Patients with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye disease) as part of a broader management plan

 

How Does Viscotears Gel Compare to Other Dry Eye Treatments?

 

Feature Viscotears Gel 0.2% Standard Hypromellose Eye Drops
Active ingredient Carbomer 980 (polyacrylic acid) Hypromellose 0.3%
Consistency Gel — thicker, longer-lasting Liquid — thinner, shorter duration
Duration of effect Longer — fewer applications needed Shorter — may need more frequent use
Suitable for contact lens wearers No (remove lenses first) Depends on formulation

 

How Should You Store Viscotears Gel and Is It Clinically Suitable for Long-Term Use?

 

Viscotears gel dry eye treatment should be stored below 25°C and kept away from direct sunlight. Once opened, the tube must be discarded after four weeks — even if product remains — to reduce the risk of contamination and infection. This is a standard requirement for preserved ophthalmic preparations.

For long-term dry eye management, Viscotears is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, if your symptoms are not improving after a few weeks of regular use, it's worth speaking to your GP or optometrist. They may want to investigate an underlying cause, such as blepharitis or Sjögren's syndrome. You can also explore other supportive products in our allergy and hay fever collection if your dry eye symptoms are linked to seasonal allergies.

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.

Viscotears Gel For Dry Eye Treatment 10g specifications
Treatment category Dry eye / Ocular lubricant
Mechanism of action Forms a viscous gel layer on the ocular surface to supplement and stabilise the tear film
Effective for Dry, irritated, or uncomfortable eyes
Suitable for Adults and children over 2 years
Active ingredient Carbomer 980 (polyacrylic acid) 0.2%
Pack size 10g tube
Strength 0.2% w/w
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Ocular lubricant / Artificial tear substitute
Preparation Ophthalmic gel
Route of administration Topical ocular (into the eye)

Specifications of Viscotears Gel For Dry Eye Treatment 10g

 

What Is Viscotears Gel and What Is It Used For?

 

Viscotears Gel is an ocular lubricant containing carbomer 980 at 0.2% w/w. It is used to relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome — a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, or where the tears evaporate too quickly. Symptoms can include dryness, burning, stinging, a gritty sensation, redness, and sensitivity to light. The NHS recognises dry eye as a very common condition, particularly in older adults, people who use screens for extended periods, and those in dry or air-conditioned environments. Viscotears gel dry eye treatment works by forming a protective, moisture-retaining layer on the surface of the eye, providing relief from these uncomfortable symptoms.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Viscotears Gel?

 

Before using Viscotears, read the following carefully. There are some situations where this product may not be appropriate, or where extra caution is needed.

Do not use Viscotears if you:

  • Are allergic to carbomer 980, cetrimide, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Are wearing soft contact lenses at the time of application (the preservative cetrimide can damage soft lens material)
  • Have a known hypersensitivity to any component of the gel

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

  • Have any eye infection, injury, or inflammation not previously assessed by a clinician
  • Are using any other eye drops or eye medications
  • Have had recent eye surgery
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek advice before use)

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are known for Viscotears Gel
  • If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, leave at least 5 minutes between applications
  • Apply Viscotears last if using multiple eye preparations, as its gel consistency may affect absorption of other products

 

How Should You Use Viscotears Gel?

 

Using Viscotears correctly ensures you get the most benefit and reduce the risk of contamination. Follow these steps each time you apply the gel.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the tube.
  2. If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them before applying the gel.
  3. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
  4. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  5. Squeeze a small amount of gel (approximately one drop) into the pocket — avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye or eyelid.
  6. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the gel evenly across the eye surface.
  7. If applying to both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
  8. Replace the cap on the tube immediately after use.

Dosage guidance:

Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dry eye symptoms Adults 1 drop per affected eye Up to 4 times daily
Dry eye symptoms Children over 2 years 1 drop per affected eye As directed by a doctor

If you are managing other eye conditions alongside dry eye, you may find it helpful to browse our broader eye care range for complementary products.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Viscotears Gel?

 

Like all medicines, Viscotears can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Common side effects:

  • Temporary blurred vision immediately after application (usually clears within 1–2 minutes)
  • Mild stinging or burning sensation upon instillation
  • Sticky feeling around the eyelids

Less common side effects:

  • Eye redness or irritation that persists beyond a few minutes
  • Crusting around the eyelid margins
  • Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, or worsening eye irritation) — stop use and seek medical advice if this occurs

Because of the temporary blurring, avoid driving or operating machinery immediately after applying Viscotears. Wait until your vision has fully cleared before doing so. If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, stop using the gel and consult your GP or optometrist.

 

How Should You Store Viscotears Gel?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the safety and effectiveness of the gel throughout its use.

  • Store below 25°C — do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Discard the tube 4 weeks after first opening, even if product remains
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton

If you're looking for additional support for eye-related discomfort caused by seasonal triggers, our allergy and hay fever collection includes antihistamine eye drops and other relevant treatments.

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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 Viscotears Gel online in the UK?

You can buy Viscotears Gel 10g online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £2.59. It is available without a prescription as a Pharmacy (P) medicine. You can also find it in most high street pharmacies and supermarket pharmacies across the UK.

How does Viscotears Gel work for dry eyes?

Viscotears Gel contains carbomer 980, a polymer that forms a viscous, gel-like layer on the surface of the eye. This layer supplements the natural tear film, reducing friction and retaining moisture for longer than thinner, watery eye drops. The result is sustained lubrication and relief from dryness, grittiness, and irritation.

How do I use Viscotears Gel step by step?

Wash your hands, remove any soft contact lenses, and tilt your head back. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket, then squeeze one drop of gel into that pocket without touching the tube tip to your eye. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the gel, then replace the cap immediately.

How often should I use Viscotears Gel each day?

The standard recommended dose is one drop applied to each affected eye up to four times daily. Your pharmacist or GP may advise a different frequency depending on the severity of your symptoms. Do not use more frequently than recommended without professional guidance.

Can I use Viscotears Gel with contact lenses?

No — you should always remove soft contact lenses before applying Viscotears Gel, as the preservative cetrimide can damage soft lens material. Wait at least 15 minutes after applying the gel before reinserting your lenses. If you wear hard (rigid gas-permeable) lenses, remove these too before use.

What are the side effects of Viscotears Gel?

The most commonly reported side effect is temporary blurred vision immediately after application, which typically clears within one to two minutes. Some people notice mild stinging, a burning sensation, or a sticky feeling around the eyelids. If you experience persistent redness, swelling, or worsening irritation, stop use and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

How long can I use Viscotears Gel for?

Viscotears Gel can be used long-term for chronic dry eye conditions when used as directed. However, the tube must be discarded four weeks after opening to prevent contamination, even if gel remains. If your symptoms have not improved after a few weeks of regular use, consult your GP or optometrist to rule out an underlying cause.

What is the difference between Viscotears Gel and standard eye drops?

Viscotears Gel has a thicker, more viscous consistency than standard artificial tear drops, which means it stays on the eye surface for longer and provides more sustained lubrication. Standard drops like hypromellose are thinner and may need to be applied more frequently. Viscotears is generally preferred for moderate to severe dry eye symptoms where thinner drops have not provided enough relief.

Who is eligible to use Viscotears Gel?

Viscotears Gel is suitable for adults and children over the age of two. It is particularly well-suited to people with persistent dry eye symptoms, those who work in air-conditioned environments, screen users, and older adults. People with known allergies to carbomer or cetrimide should not use this product. You can browse our full eye care collection if you need an alternative formulation.

What happens if I miss a dose of Viscotears Gel?

If you forget to apply Viscotears at your usual time, simply apply it as soon as you remember. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. Because Viscotears is a lubricant rather than a systemic medicine, missing an occasional dose is unlikely to cause harm — though your symptoms may feel more uncomfortable in the interim.

Can I drive after using Viscotears Gel?

You should not drive or operate machinery immediately after applying Viscotears Gel, as it can cause temporary blurred vision. Wait until your vision has fully cleared — usually within one to two minutes — before driving. If blurring persists for longer than a few minutes, do not drive and seek advice from your pharmacist.

Is Viscotears Gel safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There is limited clinical data on the use of Viscotears Gel during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Because it is applied topically to the eye and systemic absorption is minimal, it is generally considered low risk, but you should always seek advice from your GP or midwife before using any medicine during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding.

What are the alternatives to Viscotears Gel for dry eyes?

Alternatives include hypromellose eye drops, sodium hyaluronate eye drops (such as Hycosan or Artelac), and preservative-free formulations for those with sensitivities. The right choice depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether you wear contact lenses. A pharmacist can help you select the most appropriate option from our eye care range.

Can dry eyes be caused by allergies or hay fever?

Yes — allergic conjunctivitis associated with hay fever can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms, including itching, redness, and watering. In these cases, an antihistamine eye drop may be needed alongside a lubricant like Viscotears. If your dry eye symptoms are allergy-related, explore our allergy and hay fever collection for additional support.

What are the latest findings on carbomer gels for dry eye treatment?

Carbomer-based gels like Viscotears have been used clinically for decades and remain a recommended option in NHS dry eye management guidance. They are well-tolerated and effective for moderate dry eye, particularly where longer-lasting lubrication is needed. Current clinical guidance from the BNF continues to list carbomers as a first-line ocular lubricant option for dry eye syndrome.

How Should You Use Viscotears Gel?

Using Viscotears Gel correctly is straightforward, but a few simple steps make a real difference to both comfort and safety. Always wash your hands before handling the tube, and never allow the tip to touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface — this prevents contamination.

What Is the Correct Dose of Viscotears Gel?

The standard dose for adults is one drop applied to each affected eye, up to four times daily. Children over two years of age should only use Viscotears under the direction of a doctor, who will advise on appropriate frequency. Do not apply more than the recommended amount — using excess gel does not improve effectiveness and may increase the likelihood of blurred vision or a sticky sensation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Viscotears Gel?

There is no single "best" time — it really depends on when your symptoms are most troublesome. Many people find it helpful to apply Viscotears first thing in the morning, when eyes can feel particularly dry after sleep, and again in the evening. If you spend long hours at a screen, applying a dose mid-morning and mid-afternoon can help manage symptoms throughout the working day. Because the gel causes temporary blurring, avoid applying it immediately before driving or any task requiring sharp vision.

How Long Can You Use Viscotears Gel For?

Viscotears Gel can be used on an ongoing basis for chronic dry eye, provided it continues to relieve your symptoms effectively. The tube must be discarded four weeks after first opening, regardless of how much remains, to reduce the risk of eye infection from microbial contamination. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or change in character after several weeks of use, arrange a review with your GP or optometrist — there may be an underlying condition that needs further assessment.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Viscotears Gel?

Most people tolerate Viscotears Gel well, and side effects are generally mild and short-lived. The most frequently reported effect is temporary blurred vision immediately after application. This happens because the gel is thicker than natural tears and takes a moment to spread evenly across the eye surface. It usually clears within one to two minutes.

  • Temporary blurred vision after instillation
  • Mild stinging or burning sensation upon application
  • Sticky or tacky feeling around the eyelids
  • Slight watering of the eye immediately after use

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Viscotears Gel?

Less commonly, some people experience more noticeable local reactions. These are not dangerous in most cases, but they are worth monitoring. If any of the following persist beyond a day or two, stop using the gel and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.

  • Redness of the eye or surrounding skin
  • Crusting or discharge around the eyelid margins
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Prolonged or worsening irritation

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Viscotears Gel?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur, particularly in people who are allergic to any of the ingredients. Cetrimide, the preservative used in Viscotears, can occasionally cause hypersensitivity reactions. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include significant swelling of the eye or eyelid, severe redness, intense pain, or a rash around the eye area. If you experience any of these, stop using the product immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as temporary blurring or a brief stinging sensation, no action is usually needed — these typically resolve on their own within minutes. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has fully cleared. If side effects are persistent, worsening, or causing significant discomfort, discontinue use and consult your pharmacist or GP. You should also report suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Viscotears Gel Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been identified for Viscotears Gel. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, you should leave a gap of at least five minutes between applications. Apply Viscotears last in any sequence of eye preparations, as its gel consistency may reduce the absorption of other products applied afterwards. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently using, including other eye preparations.

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

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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