Safety of Eye Moisturizers in Children

Eye Glow Moist / Hypromellose 0.3% w/v

• No age defined for this product
• The company advised to use for children >6 years
• Based on other available products with same strength (MHRA), the eye drop is indicated for children and infants. Their recommended dose is 1-2 drops TDS, or ordered by the physicians

1. http://www.mhra.gov.uk/home/groups/par/documents/websiteresources/con041426
2. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine/22705

GenTeal Gel/ Carbomer 0.22% + Hypromellose 0.3%

• Not adviced for children as studies have not been conducted
• Based on other products, he safety and efficacy in children and adolescents at the posology recommended in adults has been established by clinical experience, but no clinical trial data are available.

1. http://www.drugs.com/uk/carbomer-980-liquid-eye-gel-leaflet.html
2. http://www.mhra.gov.uk/home/groups/spcpil/documents/spcpil/con1416549928420

Normal Saline Drops/ 0.9% w/v

• No age defined for our product
• Based on other products (Minims/ 0.9% Sodium Chloride), it is safe for children.

1. http://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/LicenseSPC_PA0361-012-001_29062012105040
2. http://www.drugs.com/uk/minims-saline-0-9-w-v-eye-drops-solution-leaflet.html

Recommendations

1. Generally most eye moisturisers are safe for children as they are physiological / acts as artificial tears. Furthermore the systemic absorption if poor and not harmful.
2. However they should only be indicated in proper cases as young children are not able to verbalise dry eyes and are prone to infections (viral and bacterial)