Original: $6.79
-65%$6.79
$2.38The Story
Are Optrex Double Action Itchy Eye Drops Preservative Free Right for You?
If your eyes itch, water, and feel irritated — especially during hay fever season or around pets — you are far from alone. Allergic conjunctivitis affects millions of people in the UK every year, and finding a drop that actually soothes without causing further irritation can feel like a challenge. Itchy eye drops preservative free formulations are increasingly recommended for people with sensitive eyes, frequent users, and those who wear contact lenses, because they remove the risk of preservative-related irritation altogether. Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops offer exactly that — targeted relief without the additives. You can explore the full range of products for eye-related conditions in our eye care collection.
These drops come in a convenient 10ml bottle and are available over the counter without a prescription. At £6.79, they represent an accessible option for managing the day-to-day discomfort of allergic eye symptoms. Whether your triggers are pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mould spores, this formulation is designed to address both the itch and the watering that so often come together.
How Do Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops Work?
The active ingredient is sodium cromoglicate 2%, a well-established mast cell stabiliser used in ophthalmology for decades. When your eyes encounter an allergen, mast cells in the conjunctiva release histamine and other inflammatory mediators — and it is these chemicals that cause the itching, redness, and watering you experience. Sodium cromoglicate works by stabilising the mast cell membrane, preventing that release from happening in the first place.
- Allergen enters the eye and binds to sensitised mast cells in the conjunctival tissue
- Sodium cromoglicate stabilises the mast cell membrane, blocking degranulation
- Histamine and prostaglandins are not released, so the allergic cascade is interrupted
- Itching, watering, and redness are reduced as a result
Because it works preventatively as well as reactively, regular use throughout the allergy season tends to give better results than using the drops only when symptoms flare. It is worth noting that sodium cromoglicate is not an antihistamine — it does not block histamine receptors but instead stops histamine being released at all.
Who Should Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
These drops are suitable for a broad range of people dealing with allergic eye symptoms. They are particularly well suited to those who have previously found preserved eye drops uncomfortable, or who use eye drops frequently enough that preservative accumulation becomes a concern. If you also experience nasal allergy symptoms alongside eye irritation, it may be worth looking at our allergy and hay fever collection for complementary treatments.
- Adults and children aged 6 years and over with allergic conjunctivitis
- People with sensitive eyes who react to preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride
- Contact lens wearers (lenses must be removed before use)
- Those seeking a preservative-free option for regular, ongoing allergy management
How Do Optrex Double Action Drops Compare to Other Eye Drop Options?
| Feature | Optrex Double Action Preservative Free | Standard Preserved Sodium Cromoglicate Drops |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Sodium cromoglicate 2% | Sodium cromoglicate 2% |
| Preservative-free | Yes | No (contains benzalkonium chloride) |
| Suitable for sensitive eyes | Yes | Less suitable |
| Contact lens use | Remove lenses before use; reinsert after 30 min | Remove lenses before use; reinsert after 30 min |
How Should You Store Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Because these are itchy eye drops preservative free, they do not contain the antimicrobial preservatives that help prevent contamination in standard multi-dose bottles — so it is especially important to discard the drops 28 days after first opening, even if liquid remains. Never share eye drops with another person, and always check the expiry date printed on the packaging before use.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops 10ml specifications
| Treatment category | Allergic conjunctivitis / itchy and watery eyes |
| Active ingredient | Sodium cromoglicate 2% |
| Mechanism of action | Mast cell stabiliser — prevents histamine release |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 6 years and over |
| Pack size | 10ml |
| UK classification | General Sale List (GSL) |
| Drug class | Mast cell stabiliser (cromone) |
| Preparation | Aqueous eye drops solution |
| Route of administration | Ophthalmic (topical to the eye) |
| Preservative-free | Yes |
Specifications of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops 10ml
What Are Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops and What Are They Used For?
Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2% as the active ingredient. They are used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis — specifically the itching and watering that occur when the eyes are exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores. The NHS recognises allergic conjunctivitis as one of the most common eye conditions in the UK, particularly during spring and summer when pollen counts are high.
These drops are classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, meaning you can purchase them without a prescription. They are not a treatment for bacterial or viral eye infections, and they will not relieve symptoms caused by a foreign body in the eye or a physical injury. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are allergic in origin, speak to a pharmacist before starting treatment.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Before using these drops, read the following contraindications and warnings carefully:
- Do not use if you are allergic to sodium cromoglicate or any other ingredient in the formulation
- Do not use in children under 6 years of age without medical advice
- Do not use whilst wearing soft contact lenses — remove lenses before instillation and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting
- Do not use if you have an eye infection, eye injury, or glaucoma without first consulting a doctor
- Stop use and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 2 days
- Seek urgent medical attention if you experience sudden vision changes, eye pain, or significant redness not related to allergy
Regarding drug interactions, sodium cromoglicate eye drops have no clinically significant known interactions with other medicines when used topically. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between applications and apply ointments last.
- No significant interactions with oral antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids
- If using multiple eye preparations, space them by at least 5 minutes
How Should You Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Always use these drops exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Correct technique matters — poor instillation can reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of contamination.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle
- Remove soft or hard contact lenses before applying the drops
- Tilt your head back slightly and look upward
- Gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket
- Hold the bottle above the eye without touching the tip to your eye or eyelid
- Squeeze gently to release 1 to 2 drops into the lower eyelid pocket
- Close your eye gently and blink once or twice to distribute the drops
- Repeat in the other eye if both are affected
- Replace the cap immediately after use
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergic conjunctivitis | Adults & children aged 6+ | 1–2 drops per affected eye | Up to 4 times daily |
| Allergic conjunctivitis | Children under 6 | Not recommended without medical advice | — |
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Like all medicines, these drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly after instillation.
Common side effects:
- Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after applying the drops
- Temporary blurred vision — do not drive or operate machinery until your vision clears
Less common side effects:
- Mild eye irritation or watering shortly after use
- Localised redness of the conjunctiva
If you experience severe eye pain, sudden changes in vision, significant swelling of the eyelids, or any signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face), stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention. You can find further guidance on managing eye conditions on the NHS website.
How Should You Store Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Correct storage is particularly important for preservative-free eye drops, as the absence of antimicrobial preservatives means contamination risk is higher once the bottle is opened. If you are managing multiple allergy symptoms alongside eye irritation, our allergy and hay fever collection has a range of complementary products to consider.
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton
- Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if drops remain
- Do not freeze
- Do not share the bottle with another person
- Do not use if the solution appears cloudy or discoloured
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/red-eye/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/sodium-cromoglicate/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops online in the UK?
You can buy Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops directly from Cured Pharmacy for £6.79 with fast UK delivery. They are available over the counter without a prescription, making them easy to order from the comfort of your home. Browse our full eye care collection for more options to support your eye health.
How do Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops work in the eye?
The drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2%, which works as a mast cell stabiliser — it prevents mast cells in the conjunctiva from releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals when triggered by an allergen. This interrupts the allergic response before it causes itching and watering. Because it works preventatively, consistent use throughout allergy season tends to give the best results.
How do I use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops step by step?
Wash your hands first, then tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze 1 to 2 drops into the pocket without letting the bottle tip touch your eye, then close your eye gently and blink once or twice. Replace the cap immediately and repeat in the other eye if needed.
What is the correct dose of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
The recommended dose is 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye, up to four times daily. This applies to adults and children aged 6 years and over. Do not exceed the stated dose, and if symptoms have not improved after 2 days, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
What is the best time of day to use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
There is no single best time — the drops can be used up to four times throughout the day whenever symptoms occur. If you know your allergen exposure is highest at certain times (for example, during outdoor activities in high pollen periods), using the drops before exposure may help reduce the severity of your reaction. Spacing doses evenly across the day generally provides the most consistent relief.
What are the side effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
The most commonly reported side effect is a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation, which usually passes within a minute or two. Temporary blurred vision can also occur, so avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has fully cleared. Serious side effects are rare but include severe eye pain or sudden vision changes — stop use and seek medical advice immediately if these occur.
How do I manage side effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
The transient stinging that some people notice usually resolves within a minute or so and does not require any treatment. If blurred vision occurs, simply wait until it clears before driving or doing anything that requires sharp eyesight. If irritation persists or worsens after repeated use, stop the drops and consult your pharmacist.
Who is eligible to use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over who experience itchy and watery eyes due to allergic conjunctivitis. They are particularly well suited to people with sensitive eyes or those who have previously reacted to preserved eye drops. Children under 6 should not use these drops without specific medical advice.
Can I wear contact lenses while using Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
You must remove both soft and hard contact lenses before applying the drops. Wait at least 30 minutes after instillation before reinserting your lenses. This is important even though the drops are preservative-free, as the formulation can still interact with lens materials.
What happens if I miss a dose of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
If you forget to use the drops at your usual time, simply apply them as soon as you remember. Do not double up by using extra drops to make up for a missed application. Consistent use throughout the day gives the best symptom control, but missing one dose is unlikely to cause a significant setback.
Are Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops safe to use during pregnancy?
Sodium cromoglicate is considered to have a low systemic absorption when applied topically to the eye, and it has been used during pregnancy without evidence of harm in published literature. However, as with any medicine during pregnancy, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting treatment to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
What are alternatives to Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Alternatives include other sodium cromoglicate 2% eye drops (some of which contain preservatives), or antihistamine eye drops such as those containing ketotifen or azelastine, which work by blocking histamine receptors rather than preventing histamine release. If your eye symptoms are part of a broader allergic picture, our allergy and hay fever collection includes nasal sprays and oral antihistamines that may complement your eye drop treatment.
How long can you use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops for?
These drops can be used throughout the allergy season, which for pollen-triggered symptoms typically runs from spring through to early autumn in the UK. If you need to use them for longer than a few weeks, or if your symptoms are not well controlled, it is worth speaking to your GP about whether additional or alternative treatments are needed. The bottle must be discarded 28 days after opening regardless of how much liquid remains.
Can Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops be used alongside oral antihistamines?
Yes — there are no known clinically significant interactions between sodium cromoglicate eye drops and oral antihistamines such as cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine. Many people with allergic conjunctivitis use both simultaneously for broader symptom control. Always let your pharmacist know all the medicines you are taking so they can check for any interactions.
What does the latest research say about sodium cromoglicate eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis?
Sodium cromoglicate has been used clinically for allergic conjunctivitis for several decades and remains a well-supported first-line option in UK pharmacy practice. Published clinical literature confirms its efficacy as a mast cell stabiliser for reducing itching and watering in seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis. It is listed in the British National Formulary (BNF) as an established treatment for this indication, and its safety profile is well characterised through long-term use data.
Description
Are Optrex Double Action Itchy Eye Drops Preservative Free Right for You?
If your eyes itch, water, and feel irritated — especially during hay fever season or around pets — you are far from alone. Allergic conjunctivitis affects millions of people in the UK every year, and finding a drop that actually soothes without causing further irritation can feel like a challenge. Itchy eye drops preservative free formulations are increasingly recommended for people with sensitive eyes, frequent users, and those who wear contact lenses, because they remove the risk of preservative-related irritation altogether. Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops offer exactly that — targeted relief without the additives. You can explore the full range of products for eye-related conditions in our eye care collection.
These drops come in a convenient 10ml bottle and are available over the counter without a prescription. At £6.79, they represent an accessible option for managing the day-to-day discomfort of allergic eye symptoms. Whether your triggers are pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mould spores, this formulation is designed to address both the itch and the watering that so often come together.
How Do Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops Work?
The active ingredient is sodium cromoglicate 2%, a well-established mast cell stabiliser used in ophthalmology for decades. When your eyes encounter an allergen, mast cells in the conjunctiva release histamine and other inflammatory mediators — and it is these chemicals that cause the itching, redness, and watering you experience. Sodium cromoglicate works by stabilising the mast cell membrane, preventing that release from happening in the first place.
- Allergen enters the eye and binds to sensitised mast cells in the conjunctival tissue
- Sodium cromoglicate stabilises the mast cell membrane, blocking degranulation
- Histamine and prostaglandins are not released, so the allergic cascade is interrupted
- Itching, watering, and redness are reduced as a result
Because it works preventatively as well as reactively, regular use throughout the allergy season tends to give better results than using the drops only when symptoms flare. It is worth noting that sodium cromoglicate is not an antihistamine — it does not block histamine receptors but instead stops histamine being released at all.
Who Should Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
These drops are suitable for a broad range of people dealing with allergic eye symptoms. They are particularly well suited to those who have previously found preserved eye drops uncomfortable, or who use eye drops frequently enough that preservative accumulation becomes a concern. If you also experience nasal allergy symptoms alongside eye irritation, it may be worth looking at our allergy and hay fever collection for complementary treatments.
- Adults and children aged 6 years and over with allergic conjunctivitis
- People with sensitive eyes who react to preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride
- Contact lens wearers (lenses must be removed before use)
- Those seeking a preservative-free option for regular, ongoing allergy management
How Do Optrex Double Action Drops Compare to Other Eye Drop Options?
| Feature | Optrex Double Action Preservative Free | Standard Preserved Sodium Cromoglicate Drops |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Sodium cromoglicate 2% | Sodium cromoglicate 2% |
| Preservative-free | Yes | No (contains benzalkonium chloride) |
| Suitable for sensitive eyes | Yes | Less suitable |
| Contact lens use | Remove lenses before use; reinsert after 30 min | Remove lenses before use; reinsert after 30 min |
How Should You Store Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Because these are itchy eye drops preservative free, they do not contain the antimicrobial preservatives that help prevent contamination in standard multi-dose bottles — so it is especially important to discard the drops 28 days after first opening, even if liquid remains. Never share eye drops with another person, and always check the expiry date printed on the packaging before use.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops 10ml specifications
| Treatment category | Allergic conjunctivitis / itchy and watery eyes |
| Active ingredient | Sodium cromoglicate 2% |
| Mechanism of action | Mast cell stabiliser — prevents histamine release |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 6 years and over |
| Pack size | 10ml |
| UK classification | General Sale List (GSL) |
| Drug class | Mast cell stabiliser (cromone) |
| Preparation | Aqueous eye drops solution |
| Route of administration | Ophthalmic (topical to the eye) |
| Preservative-free | Yes |
Specifications of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops 10ml
What Are Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops and What Are They Used For?
Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2% as the active ingredient. They are used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis — specifically the itching and watering that occur when the eyes are exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores. The NHS recognises allergic conjunctivitis as one of the most common eye conditions in the UK, particularly during spring and summer when pollen counts are high.
These drops are classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, meaning you can purchase them without a prescription. They are not a treatment for bacterial or viral eye infections, and they will not relieve symptoms caused by a foreign body in the eye or a physical injury. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are allergic in origin, speak to a pharmacist before starting treatment.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Before using these drops, read the following contraindications and warnings carefully:
- Do not use if you are allergic to sodium cromoglicate or any other ingredient in the formulation
- Do not use in children under 6 years of age without medical advice
- Do not use whilst wearing soft contact lenses — remove lenses before instillation and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting
- Do not use if you have an eye infection, eye injury, or glaucoma without first consulting a doctor
- Stop use and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 2 days
- Seek urgent medical attention if you experience sudden vision changes, eye pain, or significant redness not related to allergy
Regarding drug interactions, sodium cromoglicate eye drops have no clinically significant known interactions with other medicines when used topically. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between applications and apply ointments last.
- No significant interactions with oral antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids
- If using multiple eye preparations, space them by at least 5 minutes
How Should You Use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Always use these drops exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Correct technique matters — poor instillation can reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of contamination.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle
- Remove soft or hard contact lenses before applying the drops
- Tilt your head back slightly and look upward
- Gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket
- Hold the bottle above the eye without touching the tip to your eye or eyelid
- Squeeze gently to release 1 to 2 drops into the lower eyelid pocket
- Close your eye gently and blink once or twice to distribute the drops
- Repeat in the other eye if both are affected
- Replace the cap immediately after use
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergic conjunctivitis | Adults & children aged 6+ | 1–2 drops per affected eye | Up to 4 times daily |
| Allergic conjunctivitis | Children under 6 | Not recommended without medical advice | — |
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Like all medicines, these drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly after instillation.
Common side effects:
- Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after applying the drops
- Temporary blurred vision — do not drive or operate machinery until your vision clears
Less common side effects:
- Mild eye irritation or watering shortly after use
- Localised redness of the conjunctiva
If you experience severe eye pain, sudden changes in vision, significant swelling of the eyelids, or any signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face), stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention. You can find further guidance on managing eye conditions on the NHS website.
How Should You Store Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Correct storage is particularly important for preservative-free eye drops, as the absence of antimicrobial preservatives means contamination risk is higher once the bottle is opened. If you are managing multiple allergy symptoms alongside eye irritation, our allergy and hay fever collection has a range of complementary products to consider.
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton
- Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if drops remain
- Do not freeze
- Do not share the bottle with another person
- Do not use if the solution appears cloudy or discoloured
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/red-eye/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/sodium-cromoglicate/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops online in the UK?
You can buy Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Itchy & Watery Eye Drops directly from Cured Pharmacy for £6.79 with fast UK delivery. They are available over the counter without a prescription, making them easy to order from the comfort of your home. Browse our full eye care collection for more options to support your eye health.
How do Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops work in the eye?
The drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2%, which works as a mast cell stabiliser — it prevents mast cells in the conjunctiva from releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals when triggered by an allergen. This interrupts the allergic response before it causes itching and watering. Because it works preventatively, consistent use throughout allergy season tends to give the best results.
How do I use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops step by step?
Wash your hands first, then tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze 1 to 2 drops into the pocket without letting the bottle tip touch your eye, then close your eye gently and blink once or twice. Replace the cap immediately and repeat in the other eye if needed.
What is the correct dose of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
The recommended dose is 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye, up to four times daily. This applies to adults and children aged 6 years and over. Do not exceed the stated dose, and if symptoms have not improved after 2 days, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
What is the best time of day to use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
There is no single best time — the drops can be used up to four times throughout the day whenever symptoms occur. If you know your allergen exposure is highest at certain times (for example, during outdoor activities in high pollen periods), using the drops before exposure may help reduce the severity of your reaction. Spacing doses evenly across the day generally provides the most consistent relief.
What are the side effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
The most commonly reported side effect is a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation, which usually passes within a minute or two. Temporary blurred vision can also occur, so avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has fully cleared. Serious side effects are rare but include severe eye pain or sudden vision changes — stop use and seek medical advice immediately if these occur.
How do I manage side effects of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
The transient stinging that some people notice usually resolves within a minute or so and does not require any treatment. If blurred vision occurs, simply wait until it clears before driving or doing anything that requires sharp eyesight. If irritation persists or worsens after repeated use, stop the drops and consult your pharmacist.
Who is eligible to use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over who experience itchy and watery eyes due to allergic conjunctivitis. They are particularly well suited to people with sensitive eyes or those who have previously reacted to preserved eye drops. Children under 6 should not use these drops without specific medical advice.
Can I wear contact lenses while using Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
You must remove both soft and hard contact lenses before applying the drops. Wait at least 30 minutes after instillation before reinserting your lenses. This is important even though the drops are preservative-free, as the formulation can still interact with lens materials.
What happens if I miss a dose of Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
If you forget to use the drops at your usual time, simply apply them as soon as you remember. Do not double up by using extra drops to make up for a missed application. Consistent use throughout the day gives the best symptom control, but missing one dose is unlikely to cause a significant setback.
Are Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops safe to use during pregnancy?
Sodium cromoglicate is considered to have a low systemic absorption when applied topically to the eye, and it has been used during pregnancy without evidence of harm in published literature. However, as with any medicine during pregnancy, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting treatment to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
What are alternatives to Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops?
Alternatives include other sodium cromoglicate 2% eye drops (some of which contain preservatives), or antihistamine eye drops such as those containing ketotifen or azelastine, which work by blocking histamine receptors rather than preventing histamine release. If your eye symptoms are part of a broader allergic picture, our allergy and hay fever collection includes nasal sprays and oral antihistamines that may complement your eye drop treatment.
How long can you use Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops for?
These drops can be used throughout the allergy season, which for pollen-triggered symptoms typically runs from spring through to early autumn in the UK. If you need to use them for longer than a few weeks, or if your symptoms are not well controlled, it is worth speaking to your GP about whether additional or alternative treatments are needed. The bottle must be discarded 28 days after opening regardless of how much liquid remains.
Can Optrex Double Action Preservative Free Eye Drops be used alongside oral antihistamines?
Yes — there are no known clinically significant interactions between sodium cromoglicate eye drops and oral antihistamines such as cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine. Many people with allergic conjunctivitis use both simultaneously for broader symptom control. Always let your pharmacist know all the medicines you are taking so they can check for any interactions.
What does the latest research say about sodium cromoglicate eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis?
Sodium cromoglicate has been used clinically for allergic conjunctivitis for several decades and remains a well-supported first-line option in UK pharmacy practice. Published clinical literature confirms its efficacy as a mast cell stabiliser for reducing itching and watering in seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis. It is listed in the British National Formulary (BNF) as an established treatment for this indication, and its safety profile is well characterised through long-term use data.
