Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Coupons & Prices

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (also called hypromellose) is the lubricating ingredient behind many "artificial tears" and dry-eye drop products, available over the counter without a prescription; if you're looking for a hydroxypropyl-methylcellulose coupon, enter your ZIP above to see today's price at pharmacies near you, since some OTC eye drops are actually cheaper with a coupon than paying cash.

What is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and how does it work?

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose is a cellulose-derivative lubricant used as an ophthalmic demulcent under the FDA's OTC eye-drop monograph (21 CFR Part 349). It coats the surface of the eye to add moisture and reduce friction, providing temporary relief from burning, irritation, and discomfort caused by dryness or exposure to wind and sun. It's found under various brand names, including Isopto Tears, Isopto Alkaline, GenTeal, and Gonak, as well as in many store-brand "lubricant eye drops" and "artificial tears" products. It's also used by eye doctors during examinations and procedures such as gonioscopy and cataract surgery to keep the corneal surface protected.

How to save on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose eye drops

Because this ingredient is sold over the counter under many different brand and store-label names, prices can vary quite a bit from one pharmacy to the next. A generic (store-brand) version of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose lubricant eye drops is widely available, so you don't need a prescription to buy it — but running a quick price check can still help.

• Enter your ZIP code above to compare prices at pharmacies near you.
• Ask your pharmacist whether the store-brand "lubricant eye drops" or "artificial tears" version is the same active ingredient at a different price point.
• If your eye doctor writes a prescription for a specific brand (for example, before or after eye surgery), a coupon may apply even though the product is available OTC.

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose vs. other artificial tears

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose is just one of several lubricating agents used in artificial tears. Carboxymethylcellulose is another common cellulose-based lubricant used in many dry-eye products, while polyvinyl alcohol and polyethylene glycol are non-cellulose lubricants often blended into artificial tear formulas. Propylene glycol is also used as a lubricating ingredient in some eye-drop products. None of these ingredients is clearly "better" across the board — the right one often comes down to which formula feels most comfortable for your eyes, so it can be worth trying a couple of different artificial tears products to see what works best for you.

Safety information

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose eye drops are for topical use in the eye only — never for injection or swallowing. Some people notice brief blurred vision or mild stinging right after using the drops, which usually passes quickly. Remove contact lenses before applying unless your product's label says otherwise, and wait several minutes between this product and any other eye drops. Stop using the product and check with a doctor if you have eye pain, changes in vision, redness, or irritation that lasts more than 72 hours. This information is not a substitute for medical advice — talk with your doctor or pharmacist about what's right for you.