Who can and cannot use carmellose sodium eye drops

Most adults and children can use carmellose sodium eye drops.

Carmellose sodium eye drops are not suitable for some people.

To make sure they're safe for you, tell your doctor, pharmacist or optometrist before using the eye drops if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to carmellose sodium or any other medicine
• wear contact lenses – you can still use carmellose sodium, but check the leaflet that comes with the eye drops to see if you need to remove your contact lenses first

Some brands of carmellose sodium eye drops contain preservatives to keep them clean (sterile) and safe to use for longer. These are safe for most people to use.

Eye drops without preservatives are recommended if you:

• are sensitive or allergic to eye drops that contain a preservative
• have a moderate to severe dry eye condition, where you use eye drops more than 4 times a day
• use more than 1 type of eye drops or eye ointment
• use soft or hybrid contact lenses