Is it safe and non-habit-forming to continue using Refresh Tears eye drops three times a day for 9 to 10 months, especially if I sometimes wake up with crusty residue on my eyelashes, or should I switch to an alternative?
It is completely safe and non-habit-forming to continue using Refresh Tears (carboxymethylcellulose) three times a day. These lubricating drops do not cause dependency. The crusty residue you wake up with is harmless and simply the dried lubricant on your lashes. You can gently wipe it away with a warm, damp washcloth. Since you are using them long-term, switching to preservative-free artificial tears can be gentler on your eyes to avoid mild irritation, but your current routine is safe. Rest assured, this is very common, but please consult an eye specialist if you experience any pain or vision changes.
Ask Apollo
AI powered Health Chatbot
Is it safe and non-habit-forming to continue using Refresh Tears eye drops three times a day for 9 to 10 months, especially if I sometimes wake up with crusty residue on my eyelashes, or should I switch to an alternative?