Carmellose Sodium

What is carmellose sodium?

Carmellose sodium is a lubricating eye drop used to relieve symptoms of dry eye syndrome. It mimics natural tears and is available under brand names like Celluvisc, Carmize, and Optive.  Some eye drop formulations are available without preservatives, often in single-dose units. These may be more suitable for people with sensitive eyes or for those who wear contact lenses. Carmellose sodium eye drops are available to buy from pharmacies and shops. Some brands are available on prescription[1]. 

What is carmellose sodium used to treat?

Carmellose sodium is used for a range of dry eye-related symptoms and conditions, including[1]: 

• Dryness, burning, or gritty sensation 

• Eye discomfort caused by wind, smoke, or screen use 

• Post-surgical dryness or damage to the eye’s surface 

• Contact lens-related dryness (in some cases) 

• Dry eyes caused by conditions like blepharitis, rehumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, and lupus

How does carmellose sodium work?

It acts as an artificial tear substitute in several ways[1]: 

• Moisturises and lubricates the eye surface 

• Forms a protective film over the cornea 

• Reduces irritation caused by friction 

It also contains electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium to mimic the composition of natural tears[3]. 

Who can take carmellose sodium?

Carmellose sodium is generally safe for[1]: 

• Adults and children 

• Pregnant and breastfeeding people 

However, it should not be used by individuals who are allergic to carmellose sodium or any other ingredients in the formulation[1]. 

You should also speak to your doctor or pharmacist first if you[1]: 

• Wear contact lenses, particularly soft or hybrid lenses 

• Are sensitive or allergic to eye drops that contain a preservative 

• Have a moderate to severe dry eye condition that means you use eye drops more than 4 times a day 

• Use more than 1 type of eye drops or ointment 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What is the typical dosage of carmellose sodium?

There are 2 different strengths of carmellose sodium eyedrops[1]: 

• 0.5% (5mg per 1ml), recommended for mild symptoms 

• 1% (10mg per 1ml), for moderate to severe symptoms 

The standard dosage is[1]: 

• 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) 

• Up to 4 times a day, or as often as needed 

Carmellose sodium can come in an eye dropper bottle that contains a preservative, or as a single dose (or unit dose) eye dropper vial that usually do not contain preservatives. Consult product literature or speak to your pharmacist for advice on which products are preservative free[1]. 

How do you take carmellose sodium?

To apply carmellose sodium eye drops correctly[1]: 

• Wash your hands 

• Remove the lid off the bottle or twist off the top of the single-dose container, making sure the tip of either does not touch anything 

• Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid forming a “cup”  

• Look up and then squeeze 1 drop into the “cup” formed from pulling down the lower eyelid. This will make it easier to apply and will help prevent you from blinking too early 

• Close your eye and gently press your finger over the inside corner of your eye, over the eyelid, for a minute 

• Wipe away any extra liquid with a clean tissue 

• Repeat in the other eye if needed 

• Put the cap back on the bottle, or discard the single-use container after use – do not reuse it 

Avoid touching the tip of any eye drop container to your eye or any surface[1]. 

Can you stop taking carmellose sodium?

Yes, you can stop whenever symptoms improve. Carmellose sodium is not habit-forming. However, consult a healthcare professional if dryness persists or worsens[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much carmellose sodium?

Using extra drops is unlikely to cause harm, but may cause[1]: 

• Temporary blurred vision 

• Watery or irritated eyes 

If concerned, rinse your eyes with clean water and seek medical advice[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take carmellose sodium?

If you miss a dose[1]: 

• Apply it when you remember 

• Resume your usual schedule afterward 

• Do not double the dose 

How do you store carmellose sodium?

To store carmellose sodium eye drops properly[1]: 

• Keep them below 25°C 

• Store them in the original foil pouch to prevent drying out 

• Do not use after the expiry date or 28 days after the dropper bottle was opened 

• Discard each single-dose container after opening, even if some liquid remains 

What medicines can’t you take with carmellose sodium?

There are no known interactions with systemic medications or supplements, but some medicines, like antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics, can make your eyes dry[1]. 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of carmellose sodium?

Most side effects are mild and temporary. These may include[1]: 

• Mild irritation, stinging, or burning 

• Eye pain or itchiness 

• Temporary blurred vision 

Less common or rare effects may include[1]: 

• Sticky or watery eyes 

• Feeling like something is in your eye 

• Eye surface injury if the container tip touches your eye 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. If any symptoms continue, it might be that you’re sensitive to an ingredient in the eye drops, like a preservative used to keep the eye drops sterile. Speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or optometrist about this as they might be able to recommend alternative eye drops. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about carmellose sodium

Can I use carmellose sodium with contact lenses? 
Yes, you can use it without removing your lenses when using preservative free formulations[1]. 

Can I use carmellose sodium while pregnant or breastfeeding? 
Yes, it’s considered safe[1]. 

Can I use it long-term? 
Yes, if needed for ongoing dry eye symptoms[1]. 

Is carmellose sodium safe for children? 
Yes, with adult supervision[1]. 

Can I combine it with other eye drops? 
Yes but wait 15 minutes between applications[1]. 

Does carmellose sodium sting? 
Some users may feel mild, brief irritation[1]. 

Can I drive after using it? 
Wait until your vision clears if it's temporarily blurred[1]. 

Can I reuse a single-dose container? 
No, discard after one use[1]. 

What if carmellose sodium doesn’t work? 
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further advice[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to carmellose sodium, visit their website.