Compounded ophthalmic drops for chronic dry eye syndrome
Available by prescription only. Your prescriber decides the ingredients, strength, form, quantity, and directions.
Up to 2 business days for sterile ophthalmic preparations.
Acetylcysteine (NAC) eye drops are compounded ophthalmic drops used to treat chronic dry eyes, particularly keratoconjunctivitis sicca with mucus accumulation.
These notes are educational and do not replace directions from your prescriber or the label on your prescription.
Acetylcysteine, also known as N-Acetylcysteine or NAC, is a medication derived from the amino acid cysteine. It is most commonly known for treating acetaminophen (Tylenol) poisoning and as a mucolytic agent that breaks down mucus.
When compounded into ophthalmic drops, acetylcysteine acts as artificial tears that help soothe and lubricate chronically dry eyes.
Acetylcysteine eye drops are used to treat chronic dry eyes, particularly a condition known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
Dry eye symptoms are often caused by chronic inflammation of the lacrimal (tear-producing) functional unit, leading to loss of tear film integrity and an inability of the eye surface to respond to environmental challenges.
A key mechanism in chronic dry eye is tear hyperosmolarity, which leads to ocular surface inflammation, damage, and compensatory mucus accumulation in the conjunctival sac.
Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic agent — it thins and breaks down mucus. When applied to the eye, it reduces mucus accumulation and controls mucus secretion.
The free sulphydryl group in the acetylcysteine molecule reduces the disulphide bonds of mucoproteins present in mucus, reducing the viscosity (stickiness) of tears. This allows tears to flow more freely over the eye surface, improving lubrication and hydration.
Possible side effects include:
Precautions:
These drops are usually applied to the affected eyes four times daily, or as directed by your physician.
We can explain prescription details, storage, packaging, refill planning, and what to ask before the prescription is changed.
Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Call before coming in if timing, storage, or availability matters today.
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Review related medication questions, preparation considerations, and what to bring before calling or visiting.
For pediatric myopia control or diagnostic ophthalmic use, atropine eye drops are another compounded ophthalmic preparation we offer.
For severe dry eye that doesn't respond to conventional treatments, autologous serum eye drops made from your own blood may be an option.
Low-dose compounded eye drops for myopia control and other ophthalmic uses
Eye drops made from your own blood serum for severe dry eye
This website does not provide medical advice. The information is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health care provider.
Send the prescription or call the pharmacy. We can review preparation requirements, timing, and storage questions before you come in.