How to Take Refresh eye drops: Side Effects, Dosage
How to use Refresh eye drops: proper application, dosage, and side effects for temporary relief of dry eye symptoms.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
Support for Your Daily Wellness
We’re here to help you stay organized, informed, and in control of your routine.
Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Refresh eye drops
How to Take Refresh Eye Drops
Per OTC labeling, the following steps reflect standard instructions for using Refresh lubricant eye drops.
- Wash your hands first. Clean, dry hands help keep the bottle tip sterile.
- Shake the bottle gently if you are using a thicker formula (like Refresh Gel or Optive Gel). Per OTC labeling, regular Refresh tears usually do not require shaking.
- Tilt your head back and look upward. With one hand, gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a small pocket.
- Hold the bottle above the eye without touching your lashes or eye surface. This prevents contamination.
- Instill 1 drop into the pocket you created, per OTC labeling. If a second eye needs treatment, repeat the same steps there.
- Close your eyes gently for 1–2 minutes to allow the drop to be absorbed.
- Blot any excess around the eye with a clean tissue.
- If you use other eye medications, per OTC labeling, wait at least 5 minutes between products so each one absorbs properly.
- Per OTC labeling, use as directed on the label. Most people use them 1–4 times daily; preservative-free vials may be used more frequently per label directions.
- Close the bottle tightly after use, and discard preservative-free single-use vials after opening per OTC labeling.
If your eyes remain uncomfortable, your eye doctor can help fine-tune how often you use the drops.
Warnings Before Using Refresh Eye Drops
- Per OTC labeling, avoid if you are allergic to any ingredient in the product.
- Per OTC labeling, do not use if the bottle seal is broken or the solution looks cloudy.
- Per OTC labeling, remove contact lenses before use unless the label specifies compatibility.
- Per OTC labeling, stop and get medical advice if you have ongoing eye pain, vision changes, or severe redness.
Refresh eye drops Side Effects
common
Mild
Mild Temporary Blurred Vision
Per OTC labeling, brief blurriness may occur right after instillation. This generally clears within minutes as the solution spreads across the eye surface.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–5 minutes
common
Mild
Temporary Stinging or Burning
Per OTC labeling, a short, mild stinging or burning sensation can occur upon instillation, particularly if eyes are already dry or irritated.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
10–20 seconds
common
Mild
Watery Eyes
Per OTC labeling, some users may experience extra tearing following instillation, which is generally a transient response.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
5–15 minutes
uncommon
Mild
Eye Redness
Per OTC labeling, Refresh drops can occasionally cause transient redness. If redness persists or worsens, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
5–20 minutes
uncommon
Mild
Feeling of Eye Fullness
Per OTC labeling, a brief sensation of fullness or heaviness may occur as the drops coat the surface of the eye. This typically resolves as the fluid is absorbed.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 minutes
common
Mild
Sticky or Filmy Sensation
Per OTC labeling, some formulations may leave a light, temporary filmy feeling. This is a recognized effect that reduces as the tear film stabilizes.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
5–10 minutes
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Refresh eye drops
What If You Forgot to Take Refresh Eye Drops?
Per OTC labeling, Refresh drops are used as needed for symptom relief. If you miss a scheduled use:
- Apply a drop when you remember if your eyes feel dry or irritated.
- If your eyes feel comfortable, you can wait until the next time you need them.
- There is no requirement to use extra drops to make up for a missed application.
What If You Took Too Much Refresh eye drops
What If You Took Too Much Refresh Eye Drops?
If more than the labeled amount was instilled, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. If any portion was swallowed or if a child ingested the product, seek urgent medical care immediately.
- Do not use additional drops until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If unusual eye irritation, vision changes, or other unexpected symptoms occur, seek medical care.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Refresh eye drops Cost
Cost of Refresh Eye Drops With Insurance
Refresh eye drops are over-the-counter products; insurance coverage varies widely. Many standard insurance plans do not cover OTC eye drops. Some plans may allow reimbursement through FSA or HSA accounts. Contact your insurance provider or pharmacy for your specific coverage information.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy or insurance plan for current pricing.
How Much Does Refresh eye drops Cost without Insurance
Cost of Refresh Eye Drops Without Insurance
Without insurance, pricing for Refresh eye drops varies by formula, bottle size, and retailer. Contact your local pharmacy or check the retailer's website for current pricing on standard artificial tears, gel formulas, preservative-free vials, and multipacks.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy for current pricing.
