For more severe dry eye, ointment can be used, especially at bedtime. In some cases, small plugs may be inserted in the corner of the eyelids to slow drainage and loss of tears. Novartis Ophthalmics produces a range of artificial tear drops to help patients with dry eyes under the following brands. Viscotears - a long lasting soothing gel for relief of dry eye. Genteal drops and gel with a unique disappearing preservative.
Some medicines do have a potential to increase the production of tears.
One such medicine is pilocarpine available in tablets called Salagen that are approved for the treatment of dry eye associated with Sj grens syndrome and in patients who have received radiotherapy for head and neck cancer in certain countries. These patients suffer from a more severe form of dry eye. To keep dry eye symptoms in check, you and your practitioner need to work together. Follow his or her instructions carefully. If you have increased dryness or redness that is not relieved by the prescribed treatment, let your practitioner know as soon as possible.