GRAYS 0.05% EYE DROPS
TETRAHYDROLOZINE HYDROCHLORIDE
What it does
Tetrahydrolozine is a medication used to relieve redness and irritation in the eyes.
Commonly used for: red eyes (conjunctival hyperemia), eye irritation
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:46 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:06
About this medicine
Tetrahydrolozine is a medication used to relieve redness and irritation in the eyes.
What it treats
- red eyes (conjunctival hyperemia)
- eye irritation
How it works
It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the eyes, which reduces redness and swelling.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults and children over the age of 6 who experience eye redness or irritation.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: tetrahydrolozine
Tetrahydrozoline is an imidazoline derivative used primarily as a topical vasoconstrictor in ophthalmic formulations. It is commonly found in eye drops for the temporary relief of redness and irritation caused by minor eye irritations. Tetrahydrozoline works by constricting blood vessels in the conjunctiva, thereby reducing redness and swelling in the eyes.
Indications
- Temporary relief of redness and irritation in the eyes
- Ocular hyperemia
- Minor eye irritations
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific product guidelines or consult a healthcare professional for dosing instructions, especially for children under 6 years of age.
Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines or consult a healthcare professional for dosing instructions, as formulations may vary.
Mechanism of action
Tetrahydrozoline acts primarily as an alpha-adrenergic agonist. It selectively stimulates alpha-1 adrenergic receptors located on the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to vasoconstriction. This reduction in blood flow results in decreased redness and swelling in the ocular tissues.
Pharmacodynamics
By activating alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, tetrahydrozoline induces vasoconstriction, which effectively reduces ocular hyperemia (redness) and relieves symptoms of eye irritation. The onset of action is rapid, with effects typically observed within minutes of administration. The duration of action can vary but generally lasts for a few hours.
Pharmacokinetics
Tetrahydrozoline is administered topically, which limits systemic absorption. Following ocular application, its pharmacokinetics are characterized by minimal systemic circulation, reducing the likelihood of systemic side effects. The drug is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in the urine, with a half-life that is not well-defined due to its localized use and rapid clearance.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to tetrahydrozoline or any of its components
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Severe hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease
Adverse effects
- Local irritation or stinging at the application site
- Rebound congestion with prolonged use
- Increased blood pressure
- Tachycardia
- Headache
- Dizziness
Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may increase the hypertensive effect
- Other sympathomimetics may potentiate cardiovascular side effects
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with hypertension, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or cardiovascular disorders
- Avoid prolonged use to prevent rebound congestion
- Not recommended for use in children under 6 years of age without medical advice
Pregnancy
Limited data on safety. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Not known whether excreted in human milk. Use with caution and consider potential risks.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Ophthalmic solution for eye redness
- Nasal decongestant spray
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.