Hypromellose
Also known as: Isopto Plain, Tears Naturale (combination), Genteal
Hypromellose is an artificial tear drop used to keep your pet's eyes moist and comfortable. * Wash your hands before applying the drops. * **Do not let the tip of the bottle touch your pet's eye**, eyelids, or your fingers to prevent contamination. * If your pet is receiving other eye medications, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between applying different drops. Usually, artificial tears should be applied last. * Store the bottle as directed and discard it if the liquid becomes cloudy or changes color. * Multi-dose bottles should typically be discarded 28 days after opening.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
Veterinary professional? See the full dosing-by-species reference on VetSheet →
What it is used for
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) / Ocular lubrication
- Ocular lubrication (e.g., during anesthesia or for exophthalmos)
- Ocular lubrication
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Transient blurred vision immediately after application
- Mild ocular irritation or stinging (rare)
- Crusting on the eyelids from dried polymer
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to hypromellose or any component of the formulation (such as preservatives like benzalkonium chloride in multi-dose bottles)
- > **Contamination Risk:** Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including the eye or eyelid, to avoid bacterial contamination of the bottle. > **Timing:** If using multiple topical ophthalmic medications, administer hypromellose last, or wait at least 5-10 minutes between applications to prevent washout of the preceding drug. > **Preservatives:** Multi-dose bottles often contain preservatives (e.g., benzalkonium chloride) which can be epitheliotoxic with very frequent use (e.g., >4-6 times daily). Consider preservative-free single-use vials for severe dry eye requiring highly frequent application.
Drug interactions
- Other topical ophthalmic medications: May wash out other eye drops if administered simultaneously. Hypromellose can also act as a barrier if applied before other drugs.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hypromellose used for in pets?
Hypromellose is an artificial tear drop used to keep your pet's eyes moist and comfortable. • Wash your hands before applying the drops. • Do not let the tip of the bottle touch your pet's eye, eyelids, or your fingers to prevent contamination. • If your pet is receiving other eye medications, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between applying different drops. Usually, artificial tears should be applied last. • Store the bottle as directed and discard it if the liquid becomes cloudy or changes color. • Multi-dose bottles should typically be discarded 28 days after opening.
Is Hypromellose safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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