Depending on how often you plan to use the eye drops and what you're using them for, a preservative-free brand may be best. Also, some preservatives are safer than others.
Make sure to look at the active ingredients in your eye drops -- some chemicals can cause issues in the eyes over time.
Eye drops may be designed to treat dryness, redness or other eye issues. Some conditions require prescription eye drops instead of over-the-counter ones.
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If your eyes feel uncomfortable due to the seasonal changes, you're not alone. Dry, red, irritated or tired eyes are a sign of seasonal allergies. According to Dr. Celia Koetting, an optometrist and clinical instructor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, dry eye disease is a chronic problem that can flare up depending on the season. It is generally recommended for patients to visit an eye doctor for a thorough evaluation, but you don't have to wait for a doctor's appointment to get immediate relief, thanks to over-the-counter eye drops. We talked with ophthalmologists and optometrists about the best drugstore eye drops available. Here are the best options.
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What are the best eye drops overall?
The IVIZIA eye drops are a top favorite among eye doctors for multi-purpose use. Amazon
The iVizia sterile lubricant eye drops are our pick for the best eye drops overall, because they're recommended by many professionals and versatile enough for a range of eye issues.
Best eye drops of 2025
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