Viscotears Single Dose Units For Dry Eye Treatment 0.2% - 30 Pack

Are Viscotears Dry Eye Drops Right for You?

Dry eye syndrome is more common than many people realise. The NHS estimates that it affects millions of people in the UK, causing symptoms such as grittiness, burning, redness, and a persistent feeling that something is in your eye. If that sounds familiar, Viscotears dry eye drops could be exactly what you need. These 0.2% carbomer single dose units offer targeted, preservative-free lubrication in a convenient 30-pack — ideal for regular use at home or on the go. You can browse our full range of products in our eye care collection if you're looking for additional support alongside this treatment.

Each unit is single-use, which means there's no risk of contamination between doses — a real advantage if you're prone to eye infections or simply want peace of mind. The gel-like consistency of Viscotears means it stays on the eye surface longer than thinner, watery drops, giving you more sustained comfort throughout the day.

How Do Viscotears Single Dose Units Work?

The active ingredient in Viscotears is carbomer 980 (polyacrylic acid) at a concentration of 0.2%. Carbomer is a gel-forming polymer that works by mimicking the mucin layer of your natural tear film — the sticky inner layer that helps tears adhere to the eye surface. When you instil a drop, the carbomer forms a thin, transparent gel layer over the cornea and conjunctiva, reducing friction between the eyelid and the eye surface.

• Carbomer absorbs water and swells to form a viscous gel on contact with the eye.
• The gel layer stabilises the tear film, slowing evaporation of natural tears.
• Lubrication reduces the mechanical irritation caused by blinking on a dry surface.
• The single dose format means no preservatives are needed, reducing the risk of further irritation.

Because the gel is slightly more viscous than standard eye drops, you may notice brief blurring immediately after instillation. This is normal and usually clears within a minute or two as you blink.

Who Should Use Viscotears Single Dose Units?

Viscotears are suitable for adults and children over the age of two who experience dry eye symptoms. They're particularly useful if you spend long hours in front of a screen, live or work in air-conditioned environments, or wear contact lenses (though you must remove lenses before use). People who have previously reacted to preservatives in multi-dose eye drops often find the single dose format much better tolerated.

• Adults with mild to moderate dry eye syndrome.
• People sensitive to preservatives in standard eye drop bottles.
• Those who wear contact lenses and experience end-of-day dryness.
• Individuals whose dry eye is worsened by screen use, air conditioning, or central heating.

How Do Viscotears Compare to Other Dry Eye Drops?

How Should You Store Viscotears Single Dose Units?

Store Viscotears below 25°C and keep them out of direct sunlight. Do not freeze the units, as this can alter the gel consistency and reduce effectiveness. Each single dose unit should be used immediately after opening and then discarded — never save a partially used unit for later, as this increases the risk of contamination. If you're also managing other eye conditions, it's worth speaking to your pharmacist about the full range of options available in our eye care collection.

Keep all medicines, including eye drops, out of the sight and reach of children. Check the expiry date printed on the packaging before use and do not use if the unit appears damaged or the seal is broken.

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.

What Are Viscotears Single Dose Units and What Are They Used For?

Viscotears Single Dose Units 0.2% are an over-the-counter ocular lubricant used to relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome (also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca). Dry eye occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears, or when the tears you do produce evaporate too quickly. The NHS notes that dry eye is a very common condition, particularly in older adults, people who use screens for extended periods, and those in dry or air-conditioned environments.

The active ingredient, carbomer 980, forms a gel on the surface of the eye that supplements your natural tear film. Each unit contains a single dose of the gel, making it preservative-free and hygienic for repeated daily use. Viscotears dry eye drops are not a cure for the underlying cause of dry eye, but they provide effective symptomatic relief.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Viscotears?

Before using Viscotears, 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 Viscotears if you:

• Are allergic to carbomer 980, cetrimide, or any other ingredient in the formulation.
• Have a known hypersensitivity to any component of the product.
• Are wearing soft contact lenses at the time of instillation.

Warnings and precautions:

• Remove soft contact lenses before use and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting.
• Do not touch the tip of the unit to your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
• Discard each unit immediately after use — do not store for later.
• If your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days, consult your GP or optometrist.
• Seek immediate medical advice if you experience eye pain, sudden changes in vision, or increased redness.
• Use with caution in children under 2 years — seek medical advice before use.

Drug interactions:

• No clinically significant interactions are known for carbomer eye drops.
• If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, leave at least 5 minutes between each product.
• Apply Viscotears last if using alongside other eye preparations, as the gel may reduce absorption of other drops.

How Should You Use Viscotears Single Dose Units?

Using Viscotears correctly ensures you get the most benefit and reduces the risk of contamination. Follow these steps each time you use a unit.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the unit.
2. Twist off the top of one single dose unit carefully.
3. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
4. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
5. Hold the unit close to your eye (without touching it) and squeeze one drop into the pocket.
6. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the gel evenly.
7. Repeat in the other eye if needed.
8. Discard the unit immediately after use — do not reuse.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Viscotears?

Like all medicines, Viscotears can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and temporary. If you're managing multiple eye conditions alongside dry eye, it may be worth exploring our broader eye care collection for complementary products.

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

• Temporary blurred vision immediately after instillation — this usually clears within a few minutes of blinking.
• Mild stinging or burning sensation upon application.
• Slight sticky feeling around the eyelids.

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Eye redness or irritation that persists beyond a few minutes.
• Watery eyes or increased tearing.
• Eyelid swelling or discomfort.

Stop using Viscotears and seek medical advice promptly if you experience severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. These reactions are rare but require immediate attention.

How Should You Store Viscotears Single Dose Units?

Proper storage keeps the product safe and effective for the duration of its shelf life. If you're also storing other health products at home, our first aid collection has useful guidance on safe medicine storage.

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Do not freeze — freezing alters the gel structure and renders the product ineffective.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
• Discard each single dose unit immediately after opening — never store a partially used unit.
• Do not use if the unit seal is broken or the packaging appears damaged.