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Topical decongestant / vasoconstrictor (ophthalmic)

Naphazoline / decongestant eye drops: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Clear Eyes, Optrex Bloodshot Eyes (naphazoline), Naphcon, Tetryzoline / Tetrahydrozoline (Visine).

Esta información es solo orientativa de carácter general y no constituye un consejo médico. Consulta siempre a un profesional sanitario cualificado para cualquier asunto médico personal. En caso de emergencia, llama al número de emergencias de tu zona.

What it is used for

  • Short-term relief of eye redness
  • Minor eye irritation from dust, smoke or tiredness

How it works

These drops narrow the tiny blood vessels on the surface of the eye, which reduces redness and makes the eye look whiter and feel less irritated. They treat the appearance and minor irritation, not an underlying cause.

How it is taken

Comes as eye drops, available over the counter. A drop is placed into the affected eye(s). Wash your hands first and keep the dropper tip clean. Use only for short periods exactly as the label or pharmacist directs. Overusing redness-relief drops can cause rebound redness, so do not use them long term.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Brief stinging or burning on application
  • Temporary blurred vision
  • Enlarged or dilated pupils
  • Rebound redness with overuse

Serious effects — get help

  • Eye pain, persistent redness or vision changes (which can signal a more serious eye problem)
  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling, rash or breathing difficulty
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat, headache or dizziness (especially if swallowed by a child — seek urgent care)

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other eye drops (space them apart; ask a pharmacist)
  • Certain blood pressure or heart medicines (tell your clinician)
  • Contact lenses (avoid wearing during use unless advised)

Who should take care

  • Do not use for more than a few days without advice (rebound redness)
  • Avoid if you have glaucoma or certain eye conditions unless a clinician approves
  • Keep out of reach of children, as swallowing can be dangerous
  • Persistent redness should be assessed by a clinician
  • Tell a pharmacist about heart, thyroid or blood pressure conditions

Frequently asked questions

Why shouldn't I use redness drops every day?
Regular use can cause 'rebound' redness, where the eye becomes redder once the drops wear off, leading to a cycle of overuse. Use them only briefly.
Will they treat my eye infection or allergy?
No. They only reduce the appearance of redness and minor irritation. Infection or allergy needs a different, targeted treatment.
Are they dangerous if a child swallows them?
Yes. Even small amounts swallowed can be harmful to children. Keep them out of reach and seek urgent care if swallowed.
Can I use them with contact lenses?
Generally avoid wearing lenses during use unless the label or a pharmacist says it is fine.
Is Naphazoline / decongestant eye drops safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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