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Lubricant and Newborn

08/30/2011

Question:

Dear Pharmacist, I wonder if lubricant for eye without any medication for relief of redness (lubricant like polyvinyl alcohol, dextrant, carboxymethylcellulose) can be used in new born or any age. Thanks.

Answer:

Thank you for contacting NetWellness. Artificial tears are used for excessive ocular or eye dryness. It is used to treat the symptoms of dry eyes (soreness, burning, irritation or dryness) caused by eyes not producing enough tears. Tears are produced by the lacrimal gland found in the eye which keeps the eye moist. Dryness is a decreased production of tears.

I would not recommend use of these eye lubricants in an infant unless directed by your pediatrician or pediatric ophthalmologist.

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