Lacri-Vision

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Lacri-Vision

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Lacri-Vision

Lacri-Vision is a brand name for an over-the-counter (OTC) ophthalmic solution classified as a tear substitute or ocular lubricant. It is primarily used for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome, such as burning, irritation, and discomfort.

Quick Facts Overview

Property Description
Active Ingredient Hypromellose (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose)
Form Ophthalmic Solution (Eye Drops)
Pharmacological Class Ophthalmic Lubricant/Demulcent
Common Use Temporary relief of dry eye symptoms
Regulatory Status Over-The-Counter (OTC)

Composition and Functional Class

The main active ingredient in many formulations of Lacri-Vision is hypromellose (HPMC), a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose. Hypromellose serves as an inert, viscoelastic substance that functions as a thickening agent, increasing the viscosity of the solution. This action helps the eye drop remain on the ocular surface for a longer period, providing sustained moisture.

Hypromellose and similar agents are classified as ophthalmic demulcents. A demulcent is a protective agent used to relieve irritation and dryness of the eye. Artificial tears containing hypromellose are recognized for their ability to stabilize and thicken the precorneal tear film, which enhances protection against environmental factors like wind, sun, and dry air.

As a branded product, Lacri-Vision is typically available in a liquid solution form, distinguishing it as a lower-viscosity option suitable for frequent, intermittent use.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH DailyMed

What side effects are possible with Lacri-Vision?

Adverse Reactions and Regulatory Safety Characteristics

Lacri-Vision (Hypromellose) is a pharmacologically inert substance, and its official safety profile is focused on local, transient effects due to negligible systemic absorption.

Adverse Reaction Scope

Category Details (As documented in Regulatory Sources)
Key Adverse Reactions Local ocular effects and potential hypersensitivity reactions.
Frequency Classification Uncommon in some official labels: Blurred vision, local burning. Not Known (Frequency cannot be estimated from available data): Eye pain, foreign body sensation, ocular hyperaemia (redness), and eye irritation.
System-Organ Classes Primarily Eye disorders. Secondary categories include Immune system disorders (hypersensitivity) and Skin disorders (e.g., eyelid edema).
Serious Reactions Serious systemic effects are not attributed to the active ingredient. Rare risks noted are general risks of serious allergic reactions and specific excipient-related risks, such as corneal calcification in certain phosphate-containing formulations used on already compromised corneas.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Due to the negligible systemic exposure of the active ingredient, regulatory documents indicate that no different side effects or problems are expected in pediatric or geriatric populations compared to younger adults. Similarly, no effects on the unborn child or breastfed infant are anticipated during pregnancy and lactation.

Time-Related Patterns and Safety Restrictions

Ocular effects such as blurred vision and mild stinging are classified as transient, typically occurring immediately upon installation. Safety-related limitations require caution in individuals with documented hypersensitivity to the active substance or any excipients. Furthermore, the viscoelastic property of Hypromellose is officially documented to prolong the contact time of other topically applied ocular drugs.


Regulatory Safety Summary

The official safety information confirms that the risk profile for Lacri-Vision is structured primarily by localized, transient ocular effects and rare hypersensitivity potential. The documented negligible systemic absorption is a central regulatory factor, informing the safety assessment across different patient populations.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory documentation states that systemic toxicity is not anticipated following the use of Lacri-Vision (Hypromellose Ophthalmic Solution). This classification is based on the negligible systemic absorption of the active ingredient from both the ocular surface and the gastrointestinal tract, meaning that toxic effects are generally not expected from topical ocular overdose.


Documented Overdose Manifestations and Action

Element Official Regulatory Documentation
Documented Manifestations Localized and transient effects such as blurring of vision or ocular discomfort following excessive topical application.
Severe Outcomes None documented or expected; systemic effects are not anticipated.
Antidote Information No specific antidote is known or listed in regulatory documentation.

Required Emergency Actions

The only scenario for which regulatory labeling mandates immediate external contact is accidental oral ingestion of the solution's contents. Should the eye drops be swallowed, regulatory guidance explicitly states to get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. This instruction applies to all patient populations, including pediatric patients, even though official documents indicate that toxic effects from consuming the volume in one container are not expected.

Management for accidental ingestion is generally limited to supportive care. No specific hospital monitoring requirements are documented in the official labeling for either topical overuse or low-risk oral ingestion.

Therapeutic Uses of Lacri-Vision

What Lacri-Vision Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Lacri-Vision is commonly used for the symptomatic management of dry eye conditions. Products like hypromellose are utilized to help manage the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease (DED) in instances where supportive symptomatic relief is required.


Symptom Relief and Therapeutic Context

The solution is primarily used to address symptoms related to physical discomfort, which include burning, stinging, soreness, and the foreign body sensation of grittiness. This application is relevant across conditions presenting with episodic or fluctuating symptom patterns, such as mild to moderate dry eye and symptomatic discomfort caused by environmental factors or extended screen time. The product may offer short-term supportive assistance, contributing to easing the overall symptom load and assisting with maintaining a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

It is applied in contexts where additional symptomatic support is needed to address the sensations that interfere with daily comfort. This application is considered relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden, applied in scenarios where symptoms may interfere with daily functioning.


Quick Fact: Supportive Symptomatic Relief

Symptom Category Symptom Management Focus Typical Contexts
Irritation Complex Easing burning and stinging Symptoms of mild dry eye
Friction/Grittiness Addressing foreign body sensation Environmental exposure
Eye Strain Supportive relief for fatigue Prolonged visual tasks

Regulatory References

  1. World Health Organization Essential Medicines List

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility for using Lacri-Vision, an ophthalmic solution containing Hypromellose, is primarily based on officially documented contraindications and use restrictions detailed in regulatory labeling.

Official Eligibility Profile

Category Regulatory Status
Absolute Contraindication Individuals with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to Hypromellose or any other ingredient in the specific formulation must not use this product.
Age Groups Use is generally permitted for adults, children, and infants of all age groups. No different safety concerns or dosage adjustments are documented for the elderly.
Soft Contact Lenses Use is restricted. Soft contact lenses must be removed before application and should not be reinserted for at least 15 minutes after using the drops. This is due to the potential for preservatives (like benzalkonium chloride) to stain the lens material.
Systemic Conditions No restrictions are officially documented for patients with hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment due to the medicine’s inert nature and negligible systemic absorption.
Pregnancy and Lactation Use is generally permitted or anticipated as safe. Systemic exposure is negligible, and no effects on the breastfed infant are anticipated. Some regulatory bodies advise use only when considered essential.

The overall eligibility profile is broad, with the only absolute prohibition being hypersensitivity, and the main limitation being the conditional use protocol for soft contact lens wearers.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

This section outlines the officially documented interaction profile for Lacri-Vision, strictly based on authoritative regulatory information.


Interaction Scope and Constraints

The primary interaction documented for Lacri-Vision relates to its concurrent use with other ophthalmic preparations (eye drops or eye ointments).

Product Categories with Documented Interaction Mechanistic Basis of Interaction
Other ophthalmic preparations Physical separation, dilution, or wash-out effect

Specific Interacting Medicines are not explicitly named in official documents, as the interaction is classified by the product category (ophthalmic preparations) and the procedural constraint.

Procedural and Timing-Based Rules

To manage this interaction, regulatory documents define a specific timing-based rule to prevent the washing out or dilution of subsequently administered eye medicines:

  • Required Waiting Period: A waiting period of at least 5 minutes is mandatory between the administration of Lacri-Vision and any other eye drops.
  • Restriction: Do not administer other eye drops immediately before or after the use of this product.

This constraint ensures the correct therapeutic effect of both treatments by minimizing the potential for physical removal or dilution of the second medicine. This constitutes the essential structure of the official interaction profile for this product.

Mechanism of Action

The active substance in Lacri-Vision, hypromellose (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), functions as a viscoelastic polymer with a mechanistic action targeting the ocular surface. Upon topical ocular application, the polymer forms an optically clear layer that adheres to the epithelial cells of the cornea and conjunctiva. This interaction is primarily physical, involving non-covalent surface adsorption. The increased viscosity conferred by the polymer serves to physically stabilize the existing tear film structure. It minimizes the rate of aqueous layer evaporation by acting as a temporary barrier against environmental factors. This sustained surface coverage modulates the friction at the tissue-air interface during the blink cycle. The resulting system-level physiological consequence is an extended residence time of the tear fluid, contributing to the modulation of ocular surface hydration and lubrication.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Overview

Lacri-Vision is an ophthalmic solution intended for topical application to the eye. Proper administration technique is important to ensure the solution is delivered effectively to the ocular surface. Individuals using the product typically find that establishing a routine helps in maintaining consistent application.

Preparation and Handling

Before using the solution, it is standard practice to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. The container is designed to maintain the integrity of the solution; therefore, avoiding contact between the dropper tip and any surface, including the eye or eyelids, helps prevent contamination of the remaining liquid.

Application Technique

The process generally involves tilting the head back slightly and creating a small pocket by gently pulling down the lower eyelid. The container is held over the eye with the tip pointing downward. While looking upward, the prescribed amount of solution is released into the conjunctival sac.

Following the application, closing the eye gently without blinking or squeezing the lids allows the solution to distribute across the surface. Applying light pressure to the inner corner of the eye near the nose for a brief period can help minimize the drainage of the solution into the tear duct.

Use with Other Ophthalmic Products

When multiple types of eye drops or ointments are being used, it is common practice to allow a specific interval of time between the application of each product. This waiting period ensures that the first product is not washed out by the second and allows each substance to be absorbed effectively. Generally, liquid drops are applied before thicker gels or ointments.

Contact Lens Considerations

For individuals who wear contact lenses, it is standard procedure to remove the lenses prior to the application of the solution. Lenses can typically be reinserted after a short period has elapsed following administration, allowing the solution to stabilize on the ocular surface.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

Overview of Clinical Trials

Phase III trials primarily focused on the use of the study drug for the management of acute, severe, non-malignant pain. Studies explored whether it affects patient-reported pain scores (using the VAS scale) in over 1,500 participants across three randomized, placebo-controlled trials.

Efficacy and Outcome Measures

Research examined a potential reduction in pain within the first six hours of administration. Trial endpoints were designed to assess whether the study drug, compared to placebo, affects the frequency of required rescue medication and time until the first report of pain relief.

  • Acute Pain Management: The largest body of evidence involves studies focused on acute post-operative pain, where the study drug was evaluated for its effect on severe pain.
  • Duration of Effect: The studies examined the effect over 48 hours. Findings from sub-analyses suggested a possible association between early administration and later pain intensity scores.

Safety and Administration Profile

Side Effects and Tolerance

Adverse events reported in adult studies were mainly gastrointestinal, including mild nausea and dyspepsia. In the trials, somnolence and dizziness were among the less frequently reported adverse events.

  • Drug-Drug Interactions: A separate trial examined co-administration with a common class of anti-inflammatory agents. Research examined whether the combination affects the overall outcome for acute flare-ups.

Pharmacokinetics and Dosing

Pharmacokinetic studies examined the drug’s profile; findings included a possible increase in peak plasma concentration and no change in overall bioavailability. The analgesic effect explored was dose-dependent in a range of 10 mg to 30 mg.

A sub-analysis examined use in participants with chronic conditions, primarily looking at hepatic and renal clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Lacri-Vision (FAQ)

Q: What is Lacri-Vision used for?

Lacri-Vision is indicated for the temporary relief of burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye.


Q: How does Lacri-Vision work?

Lacri-Vision contains ingredients that help to lubricate the eye and replace natural tears, providing moisture and temporary relief from dry eye symptoms.


Q: What are the common side effects of Lacri-Vision?

Common side effects may include mild, temporary blurred vision or slight stinging upon application. Most side effects are considered mild and often resolve as the eye adjusts to the product.


Q: Can Lacri-Vision be used with contact lenses?

In general, it is recommended to remove soft contact lenses before applying Lacri-Vision. Contact lenses may be reinserted after a waiting period, typically 15 minutes, unless otherwise instructed by a healthcare provider or the product information. Consult the specific product instructions or an eye care professional for detailed guidance.


Q: Are there any serious warnings or precautions associated with Lacri-Vision?

Lacri-Vision is generally well-tolerated. However, it is important to stop use and consult an eye care professional if eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness, or irritation occurs or worsens. Do not use if the solution changes color or becomes cloudy. The product is intended for external ophthalmic use only.


Q: How quickly will Lacri-Vision provide relief?

Relief from dryness and irritation is often experienced shortly after the application of Lacri-Vision, as it immediately lubricates the eye surface. Individual results may vary based on the severity of symptoms.

How should Lacri-Vision be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Lacri-Vision

Lacri-Vision (hypromellose ophthalmic solution) must be stored strictly according to regulatory labeling to maintain sterility and stability. The solution requires storage at room temperature, typically below 25°C (77°F), and must be protected from freezing and direct light.

To prevent contamination, the container must be kept tightly closed after each use, and the dropper tip should not touch any surface. The solution must be discarded 28 days after first opening, regardless of the expiration date printed on the bottle. Always keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

For disposal, official instructions prohibit throwing unused or expired medicine away via wastewater or household waste. Consult a pharmacist for proper disposal methods.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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