Drug Class: Ocular Lubricant / Artificial Tears | Form: Eye Drops Solution | Prescription Status: Available Without Prescription (OTC)
What Are Hi Tears Eye Drops?
Hi Tears Eye Drops (15ml) is a lubricating ophthalmic solution that works as artificial tears — designed to relieve the discomfort of dry, irritated, and tired eyes. Each millilitre contains two clinically proven lubricating agents: Hypromellose (HPMC) 0.3% w/v and Dextran 70 0.1% w/v — which together form a stable, long-lasting protective film on the surface of the eye that closely mimics the composition and function of natural human tears.
Unlike simple saline rinses that wash the eye briefly, Hi Tears works by coating and moisturising the ocular surface — providing sustained relief rather than momentary comfort. The combination of Hypromellose and Dextran 70 is a well-established and clinically validated pairing: Hypromellose provides the primary viscous lubricating layer while Dextran 70 enhances retention time on the eye surface and adds additional protective properties.
Hi Tears is suitable for daily use in adults experiencing dry eye symptoms from any cause — whether due to a medical condition like dry eye syndrome, environmental factors like dust or air conditioning, or digital screen use. As an OTC product, it does not require a prescription, but patients with persistent or worsening eye symptoms should always consult a doctor or pharmacist.
What Are Hi Tears Eye Drops Used For?
Hi Tears Eye Drops are used for the relief of the following conditions:
- Dry eye syndrome — when the eyes do not produce enough natural tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing dryness, grittiness, and discomfort (آنکھوں کی خشکی)
- Environmental eye irritation — irritation caused by dust, smoke, wind, pollution, or dry air — particularly common in Pakistan's urban and industrial environments
- Digital eye strain — tired, dry, and uncomfortable eyes after prolonged use of mobile phones, computers, or television screens
- Air-conditioned or heated environment dryness — indoor environments with low humidity commonly worsen dry eye symptoms
- Contact lens-related dryness — to relieve discomfort and dryness associated with contact lens wear (remove lenses before use — see precautions)
- Post-surgical eye dryness — dryness and discomfort following eye surgery such as cataract surgery or LASIK, under the guidance of an eye specialist
- Mild environmental allergic irritation — soothing relief from mild eye irritation triggered by environmental allergens (not a substitute for antiallergic treatment if needed)
How Do Hi Tears Eye Drops Work?
The effectiveness of Hi Tears lies in the complementary action of its two lubricating ingredients working together on the ocular surface:
Hypromellose (HPMC) 0.3% w/v — Primary Ocular Lubricant: Hypromellose is a demulcent — a substance that forms a soothing, protective coating on the surface it contacts. When applied to the eye, HPMC spreads evenly across the cornea and conjunctiva, creating a stable tear film layer that reduces friction, retains moisture, and protects the delicate eye surface from drying out. HPMC's viscosity closely matches that of natural tears, making it comfortable to use and non-blurring at appropriate concentrations. It is one of the most widely used and well-studied artificial tear ingredients in ophthalmology globally.
Dextran 70 0.1% w/v — Tear Film Stabiliser and Protective Agent: Dextran 70 is a polysaccharide that works alongside HPMC to enhance the stability and retention of the artificial tear film on the eye surface. It helps the lubricating layer last longer between applications, reducing how frequently drops need to be reapplied. Dextran 70 also has mild ocular surface protective properties — helping to shield the corneal cells from mechanical irritation caused by blinking in a dry eye.
Combined Effect: The Hypromellose-Dextran 70 combination is a clinically proven formulation that is more effective than either ingredient alone for dry eye relief. Together they provide both immediate comfort on application and sustained lubrication — addressing the two most important requirements of an artificial tear solution: rapid symptom relief and lasting protection of the ocular surface.
Dosage and Administration
⚠️ Always use exactly as directed on the label or by your doctor or pharmacist. Never use more drops than recommended. Do not touch the dropper tip to the eye or any surface.
| Indication | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry eye syndrome | 1 – 2 drops | As needed, up to 4 – 6 times daily | Use more frequently if symptoms are severe |
| Environmental irritation | 1 – 2 drops | As needed | Use when exposed to irritating environments |
| Digital screen fatigue | 1 – 2 drops | Every 2 – 4 hours as needed | Take regular screen breaks alongside use |
| Contact lens dryness | 1 – 2 drops | As needed | Remove lenses first — wait 15 minutes before reinserting |
| Post-surgical dryness | As directed by doctor | As directed | Only under ophthalmologist's guidance |
How to Apply:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the bottle or your eyes
- Tilt your head back gently and look upward
- Pull your lower eyelid down slightly to create a small pocket
- Hold the bottle above the eye and squeeze 1 to 2 drops gently into the pocket
- Close your eye gently for 1 to 2 minutes — do not blink forcefully
- If using in both eyes, repeat on the other side
- Replace the cap firmly immediately after use
Active Ingredients
| Ingredient | Strength per ml | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Hypromellose (HPMC) | 0.3% w/v | Primary lubricant — forms protective tear film |
| Dextran 70 | 0.1% w/v | Tear film stabiliser — enhances retention on eye surface |
| Benzalkonium Chloride | As preservative | Keeps the solution sterile after opening |
Who Should NOT Use Hi Tears Eye Drops?
Do not use these drops if you:
- Are allergic to Hypromellose, Dextran 70, Benzalkonium Chloride, or any other ingredient in this product
- Are wearing soft contact lenses at the time of application — Benzalkonium Chloride is absorbed by soft lens material and can cause irritation to the eye
- Have a known eye infection that has not been assessed by a doctor — lubricating drops do not treat infection
Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Hi Tears if you:
- Have been diagnosed with a specific eye condition requiring medical treatment
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are using any other eye drops or eye medications — allow at least 5 to 10 minutes between different eye drop products
- Have had recent eye surgery
- Are using these drops for a child
Side Effects
Common Side Effects (may occur in some users):
- Temporary mild stinging or burning immediately after applying the drops — usually settles within a minute
- Temporary mild blurring of vision immediately after use — clears quickly with blinking
Serious Side Effects — Stop Using and Consult a Doctor Immediately If You Experience:
- Significant eye pain that does not settle quickly after application
- Increasing redness of the eye rather than improvement
- Sudden change in vision or worsening of vision
- Signs of eye infection — discharge, crusting, significant swelling of the eyelids
- Severe allergic reaction — widespread itching, rash, swelling of the face or eyelids, difficulty breathing (یہ طبی ہنگامی صورتحال ہے)
- Prolonged or worsening discomfort after several days of use — this may indicate an underlying eye condition requiring medical assessment
Stop Hi Tears Eye Drops and see a doctor promptly if your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they get worse at any point.
Drug and Product Interactions
| Product / Substance | Possible Interaction |
|---|---|
| Other eye drops | Always wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between applying different eye drop products — applying too soon dilutes or washes out the other medication |
| Eye ointments | Apply Hi Tears drops first — wait at least 5 minutes before applying any eye ointment |
| Soft contact lenses | Benzalkonium Chloride preservative is absorbed by soft lenses — always remove lenses before use and wait 15 minutes before reinserting |
| Antibiotic or steroid eye drops | Hi Tears can be used alongside prescription eye drops but always apply prescription drops first and wait 10 minutes before using Hi Tears — confirm with your doctor |
Storage Instructions
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
- Protect from direct sunlight and heat
- Keep the bottle cap tightly closed when not in use
- Discard the bottle 4 weeks after first opening — even if solution remains in the bottle — to avoid the risk of contamination and eye infection (بوتل کھولنے کے 4 ہفتے بعد ضائع کر دیں)
- Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں)
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Hi Tears Eye Drops every day for a long time?
Hi Tears can be used daily for ongoing dry eye relief. However, if you find you need to use the drops very frequently — more than 4 to 6 times daily — for more than a few weeks, this may indicate an underlying dry eye condition that requires proper medical assessment. Frequent long-term use of preserved eye drops (those containing Benzalkonium Chloride) can sometimes cause irritation in sensitive individuals over time. If you need very frequent or prolonged lubrication, ask your pharmacist about a preservative-free artificial tear option which is better suited for intensive daily use.
Can I use Hi Tears Eye Drops while wearing contact lenses?
You should always remove your soft contact lenses before applying Hi Tears Eye Drops. The preservative Benzalkonium Chloride can be absorbed into the soft lens material and concentrate on the eye surface — potentially causing irritation. After applying Hi Tears, wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses. Hard or gas-permeable lenses are generally less sensitive to preservatives, but it is still good practice to remove any lens before applying eye drops unless specifically instructed otherwise.
How are Hi Tears different from just washing eyes with water or saline?
Washing the eye with plain water or saline provides brief, temporary rinsing of the eye surface but does not replace or supplement the tear film in any meaningful way. Hi Tears contains Hypromellose and Dextran 70 — lubricating agents that coat and stay on the eye surface, mimicking the viscosity and protective function of natural tears. This results in sustained comfort and moisture rather than the very brief relief you get from a simple water rinse. Hi Tears works with your eye's natural tear film, not just by diluting it.
Why do Hi Tears sometimes blur my vision briefly after use?
A brief, mild blurring immediately after applying the drops is normal and expected. It happens because the lubricating solution temporarily coats the cornea before settling into the tear film. This usually clears within 30 to 60 seconds with normal blinking. If blurring persists for longer or is significant, stop use and consult your doctor as this is not typical.
Is Hi Tears suitable for children?
Hi Tears is primarily intended for adults. If you need to use artificial tears for a child, always consult a doctor or pharmacist first to confirm suitability, correct dosing, and to rule out any underlying eye condition that needs proper treatment.
I use prescription eye drops for glaucoma — can I also use Hi Tears?
Yes — artificial tears like Hi Tears are generally compatible with prescription eye drops for glaucoma or other conditions. However, always apply your prescription eye drops first and wait at least 10 minutes before applying Hi Tears, so the prescription medication is properly absorbed first. Confirm this approach with your eye doctor or pharmacist to ensure it suits your specific situation.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This product description is for general informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting any eye drop treatment, especially if you have a diagnosed eye condition. Discard the bottle 4 weeks after opening. If your eye symptoms are severe, sudden, or worsening, seek medical attention promptly.
OTC Product | No Prescription Required | Discard 4 weeks after opening | Keep out of reach of children
