Why Ocurest Eye Drop is Used in Red Eye and How It Works

Red eyes are one of the most common complaints in pharmacy practice. Patients often come with irritation, itching, watering, or a visible reddish appearance of the eye. Among the available remedies, Ocurest Eye Drops is a frequently used option in Nepal. But why is it prescribed for “red eye,” and how does it actually work? Let’s understand this in detail.

What is Ocurest Eye Drop?

Ocurest is a combination eye drop commonly available in Nepal. Its formulation typically contains:

Naphazoline Hydrochloride – a decongestant (vasoconstrictor)
Chlorpheniramine Maleate – an antihistamine
Methylcellulose – a lubricant

This unique combination makes Ocurest useful in relieving eye redness and irritation caused by minor allergies, dust, smoke, or pollution.

Why is Ocurest Used in Red Eye?

“Red eye” occurs due to the dilation of tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva, often triggered by:

Allergy (pollen, dust, smoke, cosmetics)
Irritation (pollution, swimming, eye strain)
Minor conjunctival congestion

Ocurest helps in these conditions because:

Naphazoline reduces redness by constricting dilated blood vessels.
Chlorpheniramine blocks histamine (responsible for itching, watering, and allergic reactions).
Methylcellulose provides soothing lubrication, reducing dryness and irritation.

How Does Ocurest Work?

Vasoconstrictor Action (Naphazoline):
It stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in conjunctival blood vessels, causing them to constrict. This decreases blood flow and reduces redness (“get the red out” effect).
Antihistaminic Action (Chlorpheniramine):
By blocking H1 histamine receptors, it prevents the effect of allergens, reducing itching, swelling, and watering.
Lubrication (Methylcellulose):
It helps keep the eye moist and relieves irritation caused by dryness.

Together, these actions make Ocurest effective in symptomatic relief of red eye due to minor allergies and irritation.

Important Points for Patients

Ocurest is for temporary relief and not for treating serious eye infections or injuries.
Avoid prolonged use, as naphazoline may cause rebound redness.
If redness persists for more than 3 days, or if there is pain, blurred vision, or discharge, consult an eye doctor.
Do not use it in glaucoma patients without medical advice.

Conclusion

Ocurest Eye Drops work by reducing blood vessel dilation, blocking allergic reactions, and lubricating the eyes, providing fast relief in cases of red, irritated eyes. However, pharmacists should always counsel patients about correct use and the importance of medical consultation in case of persistent or severe symptoms.

Written by Pharma Info Nepal to promote rational drug use and pharmacy awareness.