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Hydroxypropyl Cellulose

Pronounced

"hi-DROX-ee-pro-pull CELL-you-lohss"

Common brand names:

Lacrisert

Uses

This medication is an insert that is placed in your eye to treat dry eyes. It is usually used when an artificial tears solution is not successful. This medication may also be used to treat certain other eye disorders (keratitis, decreased corneal sensitivity). It works by keeping the eye moist, helping to protect the eye from injury and infection and to decrease symptoms of dry eyes such as burning, itching, and feeling as if something is in the eye.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Learn all preparation and usage instructions. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 2 times daily.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication. Ask your doctor when you may replace your contact lenses.

To apply this medication, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the insert or let it touch any other surface besides the applicator. Use the supplied applicator to place 1 insert into the eye.

Rinse the applicator with hot running water after use. Shake off any visible water droplets, and then replace the applicator in the storage container.

Avoid rubbing your eyes when using this medication. If the insert comes out, you may replace it with another one. Your doctor may direct you to also use an artificial tears solution or saline drops with this medication. Use those medications exactly as prescribed.

Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.

It may take several weeks to see the full benefit of this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.