What is the primary ingredient in artificial eye drops substitute?

The primary ingredient in artificial eye drops substitutes is carboxymethylcellulose. This compound is a cellulose derivative that effectively retains moisture and provides lubrication, making it ideal for mimicking the natural tears produced by the body. When used in eye drops, carboxymethylcellulose helps alleviate dryness and discomfort by creating a protective barrier on the surface of the eye, enhancing tear film stability.

Other options may play roles in eye care products, but they are not the main ingredient in many artificial tear formulations. For instance, hyaluronic acid is often found in certain types of eye drops due to its excellent hydrating properties, but carboxymethylcellulose remains the more conventional primary component. Glycerin serves as a humectant in some formulations, helping to draw moisture to the eyes, while dipotassium phosphate may be included as a buffering agent, but neither serves as the main active ingredient designed to provide relief from dryness.