Carboxymethylcellulose

Lubricant eye drop
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Carboxymethylcellulose is a lubricant eye drop found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Refresh Tears. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: cmc

What it is used for

Soothes dry, tired or irritated eyes (artificial tears).

How it works

A lubricant eye drop (artificial tears) that moistens and soothes dry eyes.

How to take it

Use 1 to 2 drops as often as needed. Single-dose vials are preservative-free and gentler for frequent use.

Common side effects

  • Brief blurred vision
  • Mild stinging

Get medical help straight away if

Eye pain, vision changes or redness that lasts more than 3 days

Be careful

Do not touch the dropper to the eye.

Other medicines and interactions

Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Carboxymethylcellulose (1)

Refresh Tears

Common questions

What is Carboxymethylcellulose used for?

Soothes dry, tired or irritated eyes (artificial tears).

How does Carboxymethylcellulose work?

A lubricant eye drop (artificial tears) that moistens and soothes dry eyes.

How should I take Carboxymethylcellulose?

Use 1 to 2 drops as often as needed. Single-dose vials are preservative-free and gentler for frequent use.

What are the side effects of Carboxymethylcellulose?

Common: Brief blurred vision, mild stinging. Get help straight away for: Eye pain, vision changes or redness that lasts more than 3 days.

Does Carboxymethylcellulose interact with other medicines?

Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops.

Is Carboxymethylcellulose safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Carboxymethylcellulose need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Carboxymethylcellulose?

Refresh Tears.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.