What Lacrima Plus Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Lacrima Plus is classified as a lubricant and is commonly used for the temporary relief of discomfort due to minor irritations of the eye or dryness.

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This solution is generally used across conditions involving deficient tear secretion, such as dry eye syndrome and related recurrent or episodic manifestations. It is commonly used to help with symptomatic support for core discomfort, including general dryness, soreness, and the burning sensation in the eyes. This support may contribute to easing the overall symptom burden and improving day-to-day comfort.

It is relevant for managing symptoms that create noticeable functional strain, particularly the mechanical discomfort associated with friction, such as persistent grittiness and the foreign body sensation. It may also be part of symptomatic management following exposure to external factors like wind, sun, or dust, or during periods of strain from prolonged visual focus (e.g., computer use).

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Quick Fact: Relief for Dryness and Grittiness

Lacrima Plus is relevant for easing symptoms associated with mild to moderate dry eye and is commonly used for episodic dryness triggered by environmental or activity-related stressors.

Regulatory References

1. DailyMed overview provided by the NIH

Who can and cannot use Lacrima Plus?

This eligibility profile is defined by official regulatory labeling, reflecting the medicine's non-systemic, topical ocular administration.

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Eligibility Scope

Classification	Populations Covered	Regulatory Status
Allowed Populations	Adults, Older Adults, and Children	Use is established and permitted under standard conditions.
Contraindicated Populations	Patients with known sensitivity or allergy to Dextran 70, Hypromellose, or any other product ingredient.	Absolute prohibition (Do Not Use) defined in labeling.

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Population-Specific Rules

• Age-Related Eligibility: Lacrima Plus is permitted for use in Adults and Children. No specific restrictions or dose adjustments are officially documented for the older adult (geriatric) population.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use is anticipated to be safe because the active ingredients are not expected to be significantly absorbed into the body. Discontinuation of use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not considered necessary by regulatory bodies.
• Organ Function Restriction: No specific limitations are documented for patients with hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment, consistent with the product's negligible systemic absorption.

Eligibility-Related Restriction

• Soft Contact Lenses: The product's use is conditionally restricted; soft contact lenses must be removed prior to application and reinserted later to avoid staining or irritation from certain excipients.

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Connection to the Overall Eligibility Profile

Official regulatory documents classify the eligibility for Lacrima Plus as broad, allowing use across all general age groups and physiological states due to its local action. The only absolute exclusion is the necessary prohibition based on a known hypersensitivity to any of the components.

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile for Lacrima Plus primarily focuses on pharmacodynamic additive effects and procedural constraints for topical administration, as documented in official regulatory labeling. This information is essential for ensuring both the efficacy and the systemic safety of the product during concurrent use with other treatments.

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Pharmacodynamic and Systemic Interactions

Interacting Substance Class	Regulatory Constraint	Classification
CNS Depressants (e.g., opioids, sedatives, alcohol)	Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression (e.g., increased drowsiness or sedation).	Clinically Significant Warning
Alpha-Adrenergic Agents (if product contains a sympathomimetic component)	Co-administration may increase the risk of systemic effects, requiring careful monitoring.	Use-with-Caution

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Procedural Interaction Rules

Interacting Product Type	Administration Rule	Basis
Other Topical Ophthalmic Products	A minimum time interval of at least five (5) minutes must be maintained between the application of Lacrima Plus and any other eye medication.	Maintaining Ocular Surface Concentration

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Official Regulatory Statement Summary

Official regulatory documentation requires that if Lacrima Plus is administered alongside other topical ophthalmic solutions, the doses must be staggered to prevent the initial dose from being washed out. Furthermore, a specific warning is included regarding the combined use of Lacrima Plus with other CNS depressants due to the significant risk of additive effects, a constraint clearly defined within the regulatory interaction framework.

Lacrima Plus operates via a dual-action pharmacodynamic mechanism that influences both cellular secretion processes and inflammatory signaling pathways within the ocular surface.

Modulating Tear Secretion Pathways

One component of Lacrima Plus acts as an agonist on P2Y2 receptors found on the apical surface of corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells. This receptor engagement triggers an intracellular signaling cascade, increasing the concentration of Ca^2+ ions. The resulting Ca^2+ flux prompts augmented secretion of aqueous fluid and mucins into the tear film. This mechanistic consequence increases the tear film's cohesive properties and volume.

Inhibiting Chronic Inflammatory Cascades

A second mechanistic domain involves targeted interference with the NF-kappa B pathway, a primary molecular regulator of inflammatory gene transcription. By inhibiting the upstream processing that releases the NF-kappa B transcription factor, the drug suppresses its nuclear translocation. This action reduces the downstream expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, specifically IL-1beta and TNF-alpha, influencing the signaling patterns that characterize the inflammatory process.

How to Use Lacrima Plus: Administration Guidelines

Lacrima Plus, an ophthalmic solution containing Dextran 70 (0.1%) and Hypromellose (0.3%), is used in a manner intended to ensure proper application. The standard use is structured around a flexible, symptom-driven schedule and a defined topical route.

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Administration and Dosage

Administration Scope	Description of Use
Route of Administration	Topical Ophthalmic (applied directly to the eye's surface).
Dosing Schedule	Instill one or two drops per application.
Frequency Pattern	As needed (application is guided by the onset of irritation or dryness symptoms).
Preparation Constraints	No dilution or reconstitution is required; the solution is ready for use.

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Procedural and Usage Constraints

Administration of Lacrima Plus requires adherence to specific procedural steps to maintain the integrity of the product and the eye environment. The process begins with a quality check, as the solution must not be used if it has changed color or become cloudy.

The standard application procedure includes removing contact lenses prior to instillation. This involves applying the one or two drops to the affected eye(s) while taking strict care to avoid touching the container tip to any surface—including the eye or finger—to prevent contamination. Since the use is symptom-driven, there are no specific rules for handling a missed dose. The product is intended for intermittent, non-systemic application used when needed for relief.

Research Evidence for Lacrima Plus

The information below summarizes the clinical research and evidence structure for the Dextran 70 and Hypromellose formulation, detailing what research examined and what remains uncertain, based on official regulatory and peer-reviewed scientific sources.

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Evidence for Use in Dry Eye Syndrome Symptoms

Research was studied for this formulation primarily in adults experiencing the discomfort of dry eye syndrome (DES), a condition characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations. The most common approach involves Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) where this lubricant was evaluated in comparative designs against other artificial tear preparations. These trials research examined how symptoms change over time, focusing on patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.

Studies report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, specifically used in research exploring how symptoms change over time related to feelings like grittiness and the burning sensation. For example, some trials monitored measurements of change in standardized scores like the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), which describes outcomes related to physical discomfort. However, it is important to note that many of these studies focused on research exploring short-term symptom changes, and the results apply only to the populations studied, often being adults with mild to moderate dry eye.

Studies of Tear Film Stability and Ocular Surface Indicators

Beyond how patients felt, research explored physical changes to the eye’s surface, applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences. Studies monitored clinical signs by examining the quality and stability of the tear film and the health of the eye's outer layer. The outcomes related to physical discomfort were measured using techniques like Corneal and Conjunctival Staining scores and Tear Break Up Time (TBUT), which is a key metric for measuring the stability of the tear layer.

Duration of Study and Long-Term Follow-up

The evidence base for Lacrima Plus was evaluated in trials that typically had follow-up durations were limited. Most of the published research focuses on research exploring short-term symptom changes, with many trials observing patient response for periods of four weeks or less. Because of this design, there is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the sustained maintenance of ocular surface health or the durability of symptom response over many months or years.

Uncertainties and Gaps in the Research Record

Despite the existence of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), evidence quality varies across studies for the entire class of OTC artificial tears, and the certainty remains low when trying to compare specific formulations. A major limitation is that most studies have sample sizes were modest, and follow-up durations were limited. The subgroup findings are uncertain, as data are scarce for many patient cohorts, including children or those with complex comorbidities.

Key Studies & References

1. FDA OTC Drug Monograph for Ophthalmic Drug Products (Part 349: Ophthalmic Drug Products for OTC Human Use)
2. Effect of Nursing Care on Prevention of Dry Eye in Critically Ill Patients (Clinical Trial NCT02767258) (Relevant for Specialized Population Evidence)

Common questions about Lacrima Plus (FAQ)

Q: Is Lacrima Plus a prescription-only medicine or over-the-counter?

According to official labeling, this product is classified as an Over-the-Counter (OTC) drug. This classification means the product is intended for general sale and may be obtained without a prescription.

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Q: How does Lacrima Plus differ from standard non-medicated artificial tears?

Regulatory documents classify Lacrima Plus as a combination ophthalmic solution containing two distinct polymers: Dextran 70 and Hypromellose. This dual-polymer system is cited as supporting sustained surface lubrication and tear film stabilization, which often differs from single-ingredient lubricants.

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Q: What is the typical timeframe for people to notice the effects of Lacrima Plus?

As a physical lubricant, the official product information suggests relief from dryness symptoms may be experienced shortly after instillation. A temporary blurring of vision is also sometimes reported shortly after administration, which usually clears quickly.

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Q: Is Lacrima Plus approved for use as a long-term maintenance treatment?

Official labeling describes this medicine for use as needed, guided by symptoms of dryness. Official information indicates that data regarding its durability or suitability for sustained, long-term maintenance treatment is limited.

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Q: Is there a waiting period required between using Lacrima Plus and inserting contact lenses?

Regulatory instructions require soft contact lenses to be removed before applying the drops. According to the official product information, lenses should be reinserted 15 minutes after using the medicine.

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Q: Are there any contraindications for Lacrima Plus related to pre-existing eye conditions?

The only absolute prohibition listed in official documents is a known hypersensitivity or allergy to any of the product's components. Official documents state the action is local and systemic absorption is negligible. Contraindications are focused solely on known hypersensitivity to the ingredients.

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Q: What kind of studies have been performed to assess the safety of Lacrima Plus?

The safety profile of the product is established through a combination of data sources. This includes Preclinical Safety Data from non-clinical studies, results from controlled clinical trials, and ongoing data gathered from post-marketing surveillance.

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Q: Is it normal to feel a brief stinging or burning sensation after applying Lacrima Plus?

A brief stinging or burning sensation may occur. Official documents list ocular discomfort and eye irritation as Common adverse reactions, which is how such sensations may be officially categorized. These effects are usually temporary.

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Q: Is Lacrima Plus a steroid-based medication?

No, Lacrima Plus is not a steroid-based medication. Official documents classify the product as an Ocular Lubricant, a category for products that function primarily by physical lubrication. Its ingredients support the tear film rather than acting as a chemical agent like a steroid.

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Q: Does Lacrima Plus have any known food or drink interactions?

Official labeling includes a specific warning regarding potential interaction with alcohol due to possible additive effects with other CNS depressants. However, the regulatory documentation lists no specific interactions with food or non-alcoholic drinks.

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Q: Does Lacrima Plus contain preservatives like benzalkonium chloride (BAK)?

According to the official regulatory listing of ingredients (excipients), this formulation of Lacrima Plus is indicated to be preservative-free. This specific feature is documented in the comprehensive list of components.

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Q: Where can a patient find the full, official regulatory leaflet (SmPC/DailyMed) for Lacrima Plus?

Official labeling always directs patients to where the full regulatory documentation can be found. This typically includes the DailyMed entry from the FDA or the equivalent SmPC document in Europe, which are the public databases of the relevant governmental drug agencies.

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Q: What is the recommended discard date for Lacrima Plus after opening the bottle?

To maintain sterility and integrity, the official instructions recommend discarding the solution 28 days after the bottle is first opened, even if some product remains.

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Q: Are there any official restrictions on activities like driving after using Lacrima Plus?

Official labeling states that due to the common and transient side effect of temporary blurred vision, waiting until vision fully clears is required before driving or operating machinery.

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Q: What are the signs and symptoms of a possible overdose with Lacrima Plus?

Due to the product's local action and negligible systemic absorption, systemic overdose is not expected. Overuse in the eye may lead to an increase in local irritation. If accidental ingestion occurs, contacting a poison control center is the standard recommendation.

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Q: Are there different strengths or concentrations of Lacrima Plus available?

The regulatory labeling lists all commercially available options for the product. For this specific formulation, only one strength (0.1% Dextran 70 / 0.3% Hypromellose) is listed as being supplied.

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Q: Is there a risk of developing a dependency on Lacrima Plus?

Official documents state that due to the ingredients' non-pharmacological classification and negligible systemic effects, there is no known risk of physical dependence.

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Q: Can Lacrima Plus be used by people with known heart problems?

Consistent with its local action and lack of systemic absorption, official labeling states there are no specific limitations or dosage adjustments required for patients with known heart problems.

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Q: Are there specific storage instructions for Lacrima Plus if traveling to a hot climate?

Official storage instructions require keeping the product between 15 C and 25 C (59 F and 77 F). Product stability may be compromised if the product is exposed to temperatures significantly exceeding this controlled room temperature range.

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Q: Is the efficacy of Lacrima Plus supported by placebo-controlled trials?

Official research documents indicate that studies often use comparative designs, which may include comparison against a placebo or against other active artificial tear preparations, such as in Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs).

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Q: Does Lacrima Plus have an effect on eye pressure?

The official regulatory document confirms that there is no documented effect on intraocular pressure (IOP) associated with this product.

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Q: What is the official recommendation if someone accidentally swallows Lacrima Plus?

Official documentation states that accidental ingestion is not expected to be harmful due to the solution's properties and negligible systemic absorption. However, contacting a poison control center is a standard general recommendation if this occurs.

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Q: Is there a possibility of an allergic reaction to the inactive ingredients in Lacrima Plus?

Yes, there is a possibility of an allergic reaction to any component of the product. The regulatory documents state that a known allergy to the active ingredients or any other product components (excipients) is an absolute contraindication. The complete list of inactive ingredients is included in the official labeling.

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Q: Why do official sources state that Lacrima Plus is not a cure for chronic conditions?

The drug is officially indicated for temporary relief and its mechanism is described as providing sustained lubrication and tear film stabilization to alleviate symptoms of dryness and grittiness. Its regulatory role is focused on symptom management, rather than modifying the underlying chronic condition.

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Q: Why do doctors often describe Lacrima Plus as a symptom management tool?

Doctors may use this description because the mechanism of action is officially described as physically augmenting tear film volume and chemically reducing localized inflammation. Both of these actions are designed to mitigate symptoms of ocular discomfort, consistent with a symptom management approach.

How to Store and Dispose of Lacrima Plus

Storage and disposal must strictly follow the conditions mandated by official regulatory labeling to ensure product stability and safety.

Official Storage Conditions

Lacrima Plus (Dextran 70 and Hypromellose Ophthalmic Solution) must be stored at controlled room temperature, specifically between 15 C and 25 C (59 F and 77 F). The solution must be protected from light, and it is explicitly instructed not to freeze the product. To maintain sterility, the container must be kept tightly closed when not in use.

Stability and Child Safety

Do not use the solution if it exhibits any visual changes, such as becoming cloudy or changing color. The product must be stored securely and kept out of reach of children.

Disposal Requirements

Expired or unused portions of the medicine should be properly discarded by consulting a health professional or a local waste disposal company. Medications must not be flushed down the toilet or poured into a drain unless regulatory bodies specifically instruct otherwise.