ATC Group: S01XA20 Artificial tears and other indifferent preparations

Carmellose sodium has no pharmacological effect. Carmellose sodium has a high viscosity resulting in an increased retention time on the eye.

Polyacrylic acid is a hydrophilic, high molecular weight polymer of carboxyvinylic acid. The gel forms a transparent lubricating and moistening film on the surface of the eye. The preparation has a pH similar to that found in the normal tear film and is slightly hypotonic with respect to tears. Polyacrylic acid relieves the symptoms of irritation linked with dry eye syndromes and protects the cornea against drying out.

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), also commonly called polyvidone or povidone, is a water-soluble polymer made from the monomer N-vinylpyrrolidone. Polyvinylpyrrolidone is used as a lubricant in some eye drops.