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December 27, 2025
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Brand Name :
Rohto Hydra
Synonyms :
hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic
Class :
Ophthalmic Lubricants
Brand Name :
Rohto Hydra
Synonyms :
hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic
Class :
Ophthalmic Lubricants
Dosage forms and strengths
ophthalmic solution
0.6%
Dosage forms and strengths
ophthalmic solution
0.6%
Refer adult dosing
Actions and Spectrum
Action:
Lubrication: hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic acts as a lubricant, helping to reduce friction between the eyelids and the ocular surface. This lubricating action can alleviate discomfort caused by dryness or irritation.
Moisture Retention: It has the ability to retain moisture, forming a protective layer on the ocular surface. This helps prevent excessive evaporation of tears, maintaining proper hydration and reducing dryness.
Spectrum:
Dry Eye Relief: hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic is commonly used in the treatment of dry eye syndrome. Lubricating the ocular surface and increasing moisture retention helps alleviate symptoms such as itching, burning, foreign body sensation, and excessive tearing associated with dry eyes.
Ocular Surface Disorders: It can be beneficial in managing various ocular surface disorders, including conjunctivitis, corneal abrasions, and erosions. The lubricating and protective properties of hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic aid in reducing discomfort, promoting healing, and preventing further damage.
Not available
Black Box Warning:
None
Contraindication/Caution:
Hypersensitivity or Allergy: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to hydroxyethyl cellulose or any other components of the eye drops or ointments should avoid using them.
Pre-existing Eye Infections: If you have an active eye infection, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or any other ocular condition, avoiding hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic products is generally recommended without proper medical supervision. These products may not be appropriate for treating an infection and could potentially worsen the condition.
Eye Surgery or Trauma: If you have recently undergone eye surgery or experienced significant eye trauma, it is advisable to consult your eye care specialist before using hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic products. They will provide guidance on the appropriate use and timing based on your specific situation.
Contact Lens Use: Contact lens wearers should remove their lenses before using hydroxyethyl cellulose eye drops. The presence of the eye drops can interact with contact lenses and may cause discomfort, clouding of vision, or damage to the lenses.
Pregnancy warnings:
Pregnancy category: B
Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown
Pregnancy Categories:
Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester.
Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category
Pharmacology:
hydroxyethyl cellulose is a biocompatible and water-soluble polymer commonly used in various pharmaceutical formulations, including ophthalmic preparations.
Pharmacodynamics:
Viscosity-enhancing agent: Drug is known for its ability to increase the viscosity of aqueous solutions. In ophthalmic formulations, it improves the residence time of the drug on the ocular surface, allowing for prolonged contact with the eye tissues. The increased viscosity also enhances the precorneal drug retention and the bioavailability of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API).
Mucoadhesive properties: Drug exhibits mucoadhesive properties, meaning it adheres to the mucous membranes of the eye when applied topically. This adhesion helps to prolong the contact time of the drug with the ocular surface and improves the retention of the formulation on the eye, leading to better drug absorption and efficacy.
Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption
When applied topically as an ophthalmic formulation, Drug may exhibit limited absorption into the systemic circulation. The polymer is primarily designed to provide a local therapeutic effect on the ocular surface rather than systemic absorption.
Distribution
Drug is typically retained at the site of application due to its mucoadhesive properties. It forms a gel-like matrix on the ocular surface, providing extended contact time and localized drug delivery.
Metabolism
Drug is not metabolized in the body. It is a chemically modified cellulose derivative and does not undergo significant biotransformation.
Excretion and Elimination
Since hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic formulations are primarily used topically, the excretion occurs through the normal processes of tear drainage and ocular surface clearance. The polymer is expected to be eliminated primarily via local clearance and not through systemic routes.
Administration:
To prevent contamination, it is important not to let the tip of the container come into contact with any surface. Remember to replace the cap after each use. Additionally, refrain from using the solution if it undergoes a color change or becomes cloudy. Prior to use, make sure to remove your contact lenses.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic
Why do we use hydroxyethyl cellulose ophthalmic?
Lubricating Eye Drops: Drug is often included as a lubricating agent in artificial tears and eye drops. These drops help relieve dryness, irritation, and discomfort in the eyes, particularly in conditions such as dry eye syndrome. Drug enhances the viscosity of the eye drops, allowing them to remain on the ocular surface for an extended period, providing prolonged lubrication and moisture.
Ophthalmic Gels: Drug is also employed in the formulation of ophthalmic gels, which offer a more sustained release of medication compared to eye drops. These gels can be used to deliver therapeutic agents such as antibiotics, steroids, or other medications to the eye for the treatment of various ophthalmic conditions like conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or allergic reactions.
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