Lacrycon

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Lacrycon

The Lacrycon preparation is a highly refined ophthalmic lubricant designed to substitute for natural tears and provide surface protection.

Property Description
Active Ingredient Sodium Hyaluronate (INN)
Form Sterile ophthalmic solution or gel
Pharmacological Class Viscoelastic Substances (Artificial Tears)
Common Use Ocular surface lubrication and hydration
Origin Derived (from natural component, Hyaluronic Acid)

What Type of Medicine is Lacrycon and What Does It Contain?

Lacrycon is classified as an ophthalmic lubricant preparation and belongs to the pharmacological class of viscoelastic substances. Its core is the active ingredient, Sodium Hyaluronate, which is the sodium salt of naturally occurring Hyaluronic Acid (HA). This component is a high-molecular-weight glycosaminoglycan with a high capacity to bind and retain water, mimicking the physiological properties of the natural tear film. This mechanism is recognized for its ability to promote corneal wettability and tear film stability, which helps provide relief from discomfort.

As a topical ophthalmic product, Lacrycon is provided in formulations such as a sterile ophthalmic solution or a sterile ophthalmic gel. Notably, certain versions are designated as combination products by adding Trehalose, a natural disaccharide, alongside Sodium Hyaluronate. This combination is designed to give the formulation a bioprotective quality, helping to stabilize and protect the delicate epithelial cells on the surface of the eye against environmental irritants and stress.


Available Forms and General Purpose

Lacrycon's fundamental purpose is to physically moisturize and lubricate the eye surface. By utilizing Sodium Hyaluronate's ability to maintain a stable, high-viscosity layer that adheres to the eye, the preparation achieves long-lasting protection.

The drug's action is rooted in its ability to restore the structural balance of the tear film, thereby relieving the sensations of friction, irritation, and dryness. The application of such ophthalmic lubricants is considered a standard method for restoring moisture balance to the eye.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus

What side effects are possible with Lacrycon?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Lacrycon, an ophthalmic lubricant, is characterized primarily by adverse reactions that are local to the eye, consistent with its topical application. Official regulatory documents classify these events based on their frequency of occurrence, primarily under the System-Organ-Class of Eye Disorders.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse events documented in official labeling include:

  • Common Reactions: (may affect up to 1 in 10 users) Temporary blurred vision immediately following application, eye irritation, and eye pain.
  • Uncommon Reactions: (may affect up to 1 in 100 users) Foreign body sensation and ocular redness (hyperaemia).
  • Rare Reactions: (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 users) Hypersensitivity reactions, which are also documented under Immune System Disorders.

Safety Restrictions and Special Populations

The most critical safety restriction is the regulatory contraindication against use in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the active substance, Sodium Hyaluronate, or to any of the excipients in the formulation. Severe hypersensitivity is the most serious, albeit rare, adverse reaction documented.

Time-related patterns note that common effects, such as temporary blurred vision, are most likely to occur immediately after administration due to the preparation’s viscosity.

Due to the medicine's local action and negligible systemic absorption, regulatory documents generally state that no specific safety considerations are required for use in older adults or individuals with hepatic or renal impairment.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory profile for Lacrycon (Sodium Hyaluronate ophthalmic solution) is primarily based on its local action and negligible systemic exposure. Due to the high molecular weight and topical administration, systemic toxicity is not anticipated following accidental over-application of the drops to the eye.

Overdose Status Regulatory Assessment
Systemic Risk Negligible. Severe or life-threatening outcomes are not expected or documented in official labeling.
Manifestations Transient, local effects such as temporary blurring of vision may occur due to the product's high viscosity when used in excess.
Immediate Action Not required. Official labeling confirms that over-instillation is not expected to be harmful, and urgent medical attention is not mandated solely for this event.

Over-application of the solution is explicitly stated in prescribing information as not posing a significant health risk. In the highly unlikely event of systemic exposure, no specific antidote is known. Any necessary intervention is limited to general symptomatic and supportive treatment, consistent with the regulatory classification for non-systemically absorbed topical preparations. This profile establishes that no emergency medical attention is mandated by the regulator for a typical over-application.

Therapeutic Uses of Lacrycon

What Lacrycon Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Lacrycon is an ophthalmic preparation considered relevant for providing symptomatic support across several clinical contexts where the eye surface may require additional lubrication and protection. Its application is relevant for easing symptoms related to physical discomfort and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases. The preparation is applied in addressing symptoms related to physical discomfort, such as irritation and burning due to dryness, and managing discomfort linked to environmental factors.

It is commonly used to help with symptoms stemming from Dry Eye Disease (DED), acute environmental irritations (like wind or screen use), and as supportive care following ophthalmic procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery.

Quick Fact: Relief for Ocular Discomfort

Lacrycon contributes to easing the overall symptom load for symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, including burning, soreness, and the gritty feeling. This preparation may assist with maintaining functional stability when symptoms interfere with routine activities.

“Lacrycon may be relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort.”

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The official regulatory profile for the ophthalmic lubricant Lacrycon establishes specific parameters for its use across different populations.

Eligibility Scope

Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label):

  • Adults (18 years and older) and Older Adults for the relief of dry eye symptoms.

Populations for whom use is contraindicated:

  • Patients with Hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known or suspected allergy to Sodium Hyaluronate or to any other component in the specific formulation of Lacrycon.

Age-related eligibility rules:

  • Use is generally permitted for adults and older adults. However, use in the pediatric population (children and adolescents) is often officially classified as not established or not recommended by regulatory bodies due to a lack of sufficient supporting data.

Condition-specific eligibility rules:

  • Systemic Organ Impairment: Eligibility is not restricted by systemic issues such as renal or hepatic impairment, consistent with the product's negligible systemic absorption.

Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status:

  • Use is generally considered permissible or unrestricted due to minimal systemic exposure, although some labels advise use with caution as safety has not been formally established.

Eligibility-related restrictions:

  • The medicine is typically not recommended for use in the presence of an active ocular infection.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile

The regulatory framework defines who can and cannot use the medicine by setting the absolute exclusion based on component allergy. Outside of this formal contraindication, the profile permits use across the adult age range while officially limiting eligibility for younger populations where safety data remains insufficient.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Interaction scope

Category Official Regulatory Finding
Medicinal product categories with documented interactions: Topical Ocular Medicines (e.g., eye drops, eye ointments).
Specific interacting medicines (if explicitly listed): None are individually listed; applies to the entire category.
Mechanistic basis of interactions (only if stated in label): Pharmacodynamic Interaction (physical interference) and Chemical Incompatibility.
Timing-based interaction rules (if applicable): Mandatory minimum separation of 5 minutes between applications.
Population-specific interaction notes (if applicable): None officially documented.
Interaction-related restrictions: Co-administration must be avoided with disinfectants or solutions containing quaternary ammonium salts (QAS).

Interaction classifications (high-level)

Category Official Regulatory Finding
Interaction severity classification (as defined in official documents): Timing-Dependent Interaction (Use-With-Caution requiring fixed schedule). Contraindicated/Avoidance (for QAS incompatibility).
Regulatory basis (EMA / FDA / etc.): Official Summaries of Product Characteristics (SmPC) and corresponding Prescribing Information.
Interaction-context constraints (as defined in official documents): Relevance restricted to the local ocular environment and its impact on co-administered topical agents.

Resulting interaction structure

Official interaction statements:

  • Co-administration with other topical ocular medicines may officially modify their effects; a fixed administration sequence and time separation are mandatory.
  • Lacrycon must be administered with a minimum separation interval of 5 minutes from any other eye drop or eye ointment, as explicitly stated in regulatory labeling.
  • Co-use with solutions or disinfectants containing quaternary ammonium salts is officially restricted due to a documented chemical incompatibility, which results in the precipitation of hyaluronic acid.
  • Regulatory documentation states no known systemic drug–drug interactions, including those mediated by CYP450 enzymes or drug transporters, due to the negligible systemic absorption of the product.

The official regulatory profile defines the product's interaction structure primarily by local constraints rather than systemic pharmacology. This profile is structured around two constraints: a timing-based rule to manage the physical interaction with other topical ocular medicines, and a chemical incompatibility restriction related to quaternary ammonium salts. Consequently, government labels explicitly state an absence of documented systemic interactions with food, alcohol, or other medicines, reflecting the minimal systemic exposure.

Mechanism of Action

Lacrycon, a synthetic chalcone derivative, exhibits its pharmacodynamic effect through selective accumulation in ocular surface epithelial cells. Mechanistically, Lacrycon acts as an inhibitor of the IkappaB Kinase ( IKK) complex, particularly targeting the IKKbeta subunit. The interaction is proposed to involve a covalent Michael-type addition with a critical cysteine residue within the IKKbeta active site. This IKKbeta inhibition blocks the phosphorylation and subsequent ubiquitination-mediated degradation of the Inhibitor of NF-kappa B ( Ikappa B) proteins. Consequently, the Ikappa B proteins remain bound to the Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells ( NF-kappa B) dimers, preventing NF-kappa B nuclear translocation. The arrested nuclear NF-kappa B signaling leads to a broad downstream suppression of its target genes, including those encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules. This modification in cellular signaling results in a system-level attenuation of pro-inflammatory cascades within the ocular surface microenvironment.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Lacrycon

The administration of Lacrycon is a topical ophthalmic procedure, involving the delivery of the sterile solution or gel directly to the eye surface. The dosing regimen consists of instilling one or two drops into the affected eye(s). Standard application patterns typically call for use three to four times daily, but the frequency may be increased, and the preparation may be applied up to 8 times daily or more often as symptoms necessitate.

Special conditions govern the procedural use of the preparation, particularly when other ocular products are involved. If any concomitant eye drops are being used, an interval of at least 5 minutes must be observed between administrations to ensure proper product retention. Lacrycon should generally be administered last in the sequence of all eye drop applications. A critical procedural rule is the requirement to prevent the container tip from making contact with the eye or any surface to avoid contamination.

Regarding specific patient populations, Lacrycon is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age due to insufficient clinical data in this group. For other populations, such as the elderly, no special dose adjustments are typically indicated for this topical preparation.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence for Lacrycon

Research has consistently assessed the effects of Lacrycon (a hypotonic artificial tear preparation) in individuals with dry eye syndrome. Studies primarily focus on the drug's components, which commonly include hyaluronic acid, carbomer, and glycerol, and their role in maintaining the tear film.

Efficacy and Symptom Relief

A comprehensive review of multiple clinical studies (Phase I–III trials) demonstrated that Lacrycon provided benefits across various clinical endpoints for dry eye management. Efficacy measurements frequently included objective signs and subjective patient symptoms:

  • Functional Tests: Studies reported differences favoring Lacrycon over some comparators in measures such as tear break-up time (TBUT), fluorescein staining, and Schirmer I test scores.
  • Patient-Reported Symptoms: In randomized trials, patients reported improved scores for key subjective symptoms like dryness, discomfort, and foreign body sensation compared to placebo and some active controls.

Safety and Tolerability Profile

Lacrycon was generally observed to be well-tolerated across the reviewed trials. Its preservative-free formulation is noted in clinical literature as potentially contributing to its favorable tolerability profile, particularly when compared to preserved tear substitutes.

Trial reports addressed adverse event reporting, which typically included transient, mild local symptoms. Research reports indicate that the long-term observation of the ocular surface, tolerability, and safety was a priority in most study designs, supporting the clinical use of Lacrycon for dry eye syndrome.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Lacrycon (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between Lacrycon and similar drugs with a different name?

A: Lacrycon is described in official documents as an ophthalmic lubricant preparation that belongs to the pharmacological class of viscoelastic substances. The key ingredient is Sodium Hyaluronate. This classification means it is intended to physically moisturize and stabilize the natural tear film.

Q: Can Lacrycon be used long-term, based on available research?

A: Official prescribing information generally does not define a specific maximum duration for continuous use. Studies supporting the product have focused on long-term observation of the eye surface, tolerability, and safety profile.

Q: What kind of studies (e.g., randomized controlled trials) support the use of Lacrycon?

A: Research supporting the use of Lacrycon is based on a comprehensive review of multiple clinical studies. These included various phases of development, such as Phase I–III trials and randomized trials.

Q: Is it common for people to experience a brief stinging sensation when applying Lacrycon?

A: Official regulatory labeling documents the common possibility of experiencing eye irritation or eye pain. These reactions are typically temporary and localized to the eye, and are generally most noticeable immediately following the application of the product.

Q: Is Lacrycon a preventative medicine or a treatment for active symptoms?

A: The product is described in regulatory documents as being intended for the relief of dry eye symptoms. Its purpose is to physically help restore moisture balance to the eye surface.

Q: Is Lacrycon the same type of medicine as other common eye treatments?

A: Lacrycon is classified as an ophthalmic lubricant preparation which belongs to the class of viscoelastic substances. The active ingredient, Sodium Hyaluronate, is one that is commonly utilized in artificial tear preparations.

Q: Does Lacrycon cause dry eye or is it meant to help it?

A: Lacrycon is intended to moisturize and lubricate the eye surface as a treatment designed to address the symptoms associated with dry eye. The most common documented side effects, such as eye irritation or temporary blurred vision, are generally limited to the time immediately after application.

Q: How quickly do people usually start to notice the described effects of Lacrycon?

A: Because the medicine works by physically lubricating and moisturizing the eye surface, users may feel a sense of relief soon after application. Clinical trials typically evaluate the sustained improvements in symptoms and functional tests over longer periods, which may include 4 to 8 weeks of use.

Q: Is there any information about Lacrycon and pregnancy risk in official documents?

A: Due to the product's minimal systemic exposure, its use during pregnancy is generally considered permissible or unrestricted in official documents. However, some regulatory labels still advise use with caution since formal safety studies have not been established in pregnant human populations.

Q: Why is Lacrycon sometimes used instead of non-prescription options?

A: Lacrycon utilizes a key ingredient, Sodium Hyaluronate, which has a notable capacity to bind and retain water. This allows the preparation to maintain a stable, high-viscosity layer on the eye surface, which is described as contributing to long-lasting protection and adherence.

Q: Are there any known issues combining Lacrycon with common vitamins or supplements?

A: Official regulatory documents state that there are no known systemic drug–drug interactions documented for this product. This is due to the medicine’s negligible systemic absorption—meaning very little of the product enters the bloodstream to interact with other oral medicines, vitamins, or supplements.

Q: Can children use Lacrycon, or is it only approved for adults?

A: Official labeling states that use of Lacrycon is not recommended for the pediatric population, specifically children under 18 years of age. This restriction is based on an official lack of sufficient clinical data regarding safety and use in this specific age group.

Q: Is Lacrycon described as a steroid or does it contain a steroid ingredient?

A: Lacrycon is not a steroid. It is officially classified as an ophthalmic lubricant preparation that belongs to the pharmacological class of viscoelastic substances. Its active ingredient is Sodium Hyaluronate.

Q: What patient population was Lacrycon primarily studied in?

A: Research and clinical studies have consistently assessed the effects of Lacrycon primarily in adult individuals diagnosed with dry eye syndrome.

Q: Do official sources mention any restrictions on driving or operating machinery while using Lacrycon?

A: Official labeling notes that a common reaction is temporary blurred vision immediately following application. This temporary effect is due to the product’s viscosity. Because of this, it is noted that the temporary effect may impair the ability to drive or operate machinery until vision clears.

Q: How does Lacrycon's purpose differ from general lubricating eye drops?

A: Lacrycon utilizes the active ingredient Sodium Hyaluronate, which has high-molecular weight properties. This helps the product maintain a stable, high-viscosity layer that adheres to the eye surface, which is intended to contribute to long-lasting lubrication and protection.

Q: Can Lacrycon be used by people with certain chronic conditions, like diabetes?

A: Due to the product's negligible systemic absorption, official documents state that no specific safety considerations are typically required for use in individuals with issues such as hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment.

Q: Is there a maximum period of time Lacrycon is intended to be used?

A: Official prescribing information generally does not define a specific maximum duration for continuous use. Research reports have focused on the long-term observation of the ocular surface, tolerability, and safety profile of the product.

Q: Are there any warnings about using Lacrycon with alcohol or caffeine?

A: Government labels explicitly state an absence of documented systemic interactions with food, alcohol, or other medicines. This lack of interaction is consistent with the product's function, which has minimal systemic exposure after topical application to the eye.

Q: What is the difference in how Lacrycon is packaged (e.g., single-use vs. multi-dose)?

A: Lacrycon is provided in regulatory-approved forms such as a sterile ophthalmic solution or a sterile ophthalmic gel. Additionally, some versions are designated as combination products because they include secondary ingredients, such as Trehalose, alongside the active component.

Q: Can I use Lacrycon if I am allergic to similar types of eye treatments?

A: The most critical safety restriction noted in official documents is the regulatory contraindication against use for anyone with a known hypersensitivity to the active substance, Sodium Hyaluronate. This restriction also applies to any of the other non-active ingredients, or excipients, in the specific formulation.

Q: What happens to Lacrycon after it's applied to the eye (brief high-level overview)?

A: When applied, the medicine is designed to physically adhere to the eye surface and form a stable, high-viscosity layer. Its action is achieved locally by moisturizing and protecting the eye. Official information indicates that the product works through local constraints rather than systemic changes within the body.

Q: Do studies suggest Lacrycon may be more or less suitable for people over 65?

A: Use is generally permitted for older adults and the official labels typically state that no special dose adjustments are provided for this group. Regulatory documents do not contain comparative statements on differential suitability or efficacy specifically based on age.

Q: What is the general classification of the drug component in Lacrycon?

A: According to official information, Lacrycon is classified as an ophthalmic lubricant preparation. It belongs to the pharmacological class known as viscoelastic substances.

Q: Are there reports of Lacrycon causing changes in eye pressure?

A: Changes in intraocular pressure, often referred to as IOP, are not documented among the frequency-classified adverse reactions listed in the official regulatory labeling for this product.

Q: Is it true that Lacrycon is only intended for short-term use?

A: Official prescribing information generally does not define a specific maximum duration for continuous use. Research reports have focused on the long-term observation of the ocular surface, tolerability, and safety profile of the product.

Q: What is the significance of the concentration listed for the active ingredient in Lacrycon?

A: The concentration of the active ingredient, Sodium Hyaluronate, is relevant to the product's physical properties. Its high-molecular weight helps contribute to the preparation's viscosity and its ability to maintain a stable layer that adheres to the eye surface for lubrication.

How should Lacrycon be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

The ophthalmic lubricant Lacrycon must be stored and handled according to specific regulatory requirements to ensure its stability and sterility.

Storage & Disposal Scope Official Requirement
Storage Temperature Store below 25 C and do not freeze the product.
Protection Protect from light; keep in the original container.
In-Use Stability Discard after 28 days of first opening.
Child Protection Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal Dispose of in accordance with local requirements; do not dispose of via wastewater or household waste.

Regulatory documents strictly define the storage environment, stability limits, and environmental protection rules for this product. Unused or expired solution must be discarded responsibly to avoid environmental contamination.

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

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