Lacrisert Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Call Your Doctor

Starting a new eye medication can be daunting, especially when it involves physically placing an insert into your eye. Lacrisert (hydroxypropyl cellulose ophthalmic insert) is generally well tolerated, but like all medications it can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary. Knowing what to expect and what to watch for helps you use Lacrisert safely and effectively.

Common Lacrisert Side Effects

The following side effects have been reported in patients treated with Lacrisert. Most are mild and tend to improve as your eyes adjust to the insert:

Transient blurred vision. This is the most commonly reported side effect. Blurring typically occurs shortly after insertion and resolves as the insert settles and absorbs moisture. If it persists for several hours, remove the insert and contact your doctor.

Ocular discomfort or irritation. Some patients feel the insert in the first few minutes after placement. With proper technique — placing the insert deep in the inferior cul-de-sac — discomfort is minimal for most people.

Matting or stickiness of eyelashes. As the insert dissolves, some mucilaginous material may accumulate at the eyelashes overnight or in the morning. This can be gently cleaned with warm water and a clean cloth.

Photophobia (light sensitivity). Some patients experience increased sensitivity to light, especially in bright sunlight. Wearing sunglasses outdoors can help manage this.

Eyelid edema (swelling). Mild puffiness of the eyelid has been reported. If eyelid swelling is significant or accompanies redness, contact your prescriber.

Hyperemia (eye redness). Mild redness can occur, especially in the early adjustment period.

Serious Side Effects: When to Call Your Doctor

While serious side effects from Lacrisert are uncommon, contact your ophthalmologist or optometrist right away if you experience any of the following:

Corneal abrasion. If the insert is not placed correctly — particularly if it contacts the cornea (colored part of the eye) rather than the cul-de-sac — it can cause a corneal scratch. Symptoms include sudden sharp eye pain, significant worsening of blurry vision, or eye pain when blinking. Seek care promptly.

Signs of allergic reaction (hypersensitivity). Hypersensitivity to hydroxypropyl cellulose can cause significant redness, swelling, itching, or watering. Do not use Lacrisert if you are allergic to hydroxypropyl cellulose.

Worsening of symptoms. If Lacrisert causes your dry eye symptoms to worsen, inspect the conjunctival sac to ensure the insert is positioned deep in the inferior cul-de-sac. If symptoms persist, remove the insert and call your doctor.

How to Reduce Lacrisert Side Effects

Add a preservative-free artificial tear after insertion. Applying 1–2 drops of preservative-free artificial tears right after placing the insert helps it soften and dissolve more quickly, reducing early blurry vision and discomfort.

Time your insertion. If blurred vision is an issue, try inserting Lacrisert in the evening rather than the morning, or at least 30 minutes before any activity requiring sharp vision.

Follow the placement instructions exactly. Proper technique dramatically reduces the risk of corneal abrasion and insertion discomfort. Your doctor's office or a trained associate can demonstrate proper insertion. Bausch + Lomb also provides instructional materials in the package.

Do not drive immediately after insertion. Due to the risk of transient blurred vision, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery immediately after placing the insert. Wait until your vision has returned to normal.

Is Lacrisert Safe for Long-Term Use?

Lacrisert has been used for decades, and many patients report using it for 10–20+ years with excellent results. Hydroxypropyl cellulose is a well-established, biocompatible polymer with a strong safety profile. No significant long-term toxicity has been observed in animal studies or clinical use. It is preservative-free, which is an important advantage over frequent use of preserved eye drops.

See also: How to Find Lacrisert in Stock Near You and Lacrisert Drug Interactions: What to Avoid.