Ingredient: Polyethylene glycol 400 and propylene glycol.
Systane*, Gel, Ultra*, and Sport Drops: Polyethylene glycol 400 0.4% and propylene glycol 0.3%, each with different inactive ingredient. *Available without preservatives.
Systane Nighttime Ointment: Contains mineral oil 3% and white petrolatum 94%*.
Systane Contacts: Contains dextran, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, with edetate disodium 0.1% and POLYQUAD (polyquaternium-1) 0.001% perservatives*.
Systane BALANCE: Propylene glycol 0.6%.
Systane Gel Lubricant: Hypromellose 0.3%.
For the temporary relief of burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye: Instill 1-2 drops in the eye as needed.
For the use as lubricant to prevent further irritation or to relieve dryness of the eye: Pull down the lower lid of the affected eye and apply a small amount (one-fourth of an inch) of ointment to the inside of the eyelid.
To relieve irritation and moisten contact lenses while wearing (Systane Contacts): Place 1-2 drops on the eye followed by blinking 2-3 times.
Pharmacology:
Both polyethylene glycol 400 and propylene glycol act as demulcents and lubricants when used topically in the eye. They decrease the surface tension and contact angle of tears allowing for a smoother spreading across the cornea. White petrolatum and mineral oil act as emollients to keep the eye moist for a long period of time. The inactive ingredient hydroxypropyl-guar (HPG) extends the lubrication of the active ingredients.
Evaluation:
Topical over-the-counter ophthalmic medications are indicated for the cosmetic relief of redness in the eyes and for corneal edema or for treatment of dry eye upon the direction of a physician. Pain, blurred vision, or pus formation (infection) are symptoms of a more serious condition, and the patient should be examined by a physician. Dryness of the eye can be caused exposure to the elements and in advanced age. Symptoms include irritation, dryness, and sensation of a foreign body in the eye. If the patient has a foreign body in the eye, removal of the body along with irrigation and treatment with a topical decongestant is indicated. If the body is difficult to remove or caused a laceration of the corneal surface, a physician should be consulted. Styes are mild infections of an eyelash follicle or sweat gland and are usually self-limiting. Application of a moderately warm compress 3-4 times a day will help to bring the stye to a head.
Contraindications/Precautions:
Consult a physician if the condition is not improved within 72 hours or if it becomes worse. Use care in recommending any OTC agent for ophthalmic use.
Adverse Effects:
Ophthalmic ointments may cause temporary blurred vision.
Do not use if this product changes color or becomes cloudy.
Do not touch the tip of the container to any surface to avoid contamination.
Remove contacts before using (except Systane Contacts).
Consult a physician if you experience eye pain, changes in vision, or redness or irritation gets worse, persists, or lasts for more than 72 hours.
Wash hands prior to application.
To instill drops: Lie down or tilt head backward and look up. Pull down the skin under the eye creating a small “sac” of the lower eyelid. Instill drops into the sac and keep the eye open for a few seconds.
To instill ointment: Squeeze about ¼ inch of ointment in a thin strip onto index finger. Using other hand, pull down the skin under the eye creating a small “sac” of the lower eyelid. Place the ointment into the sac and while continuing to hold the eyelid down, rotate eye several times.