Eye drops for irritated eyes

Quell’s Uses section begins with irritation: For use as a protectant against further irritation or to relieve dryness of the eye. “A protectant against further irritation” is the label’s way of saying it is for eyes that are already irritated, to protect them from more.

Preservatives and irritation

Preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride are a common source of irritation for people using drops several times a day. Quell contains none, which matters most to people who use drops on a schedule.

Directions

Apply 1 drop 3 times per day in each eye. The directions don’t change when your eyes feel worse. Stick to them, and if things aren’t settling, the stop-use section below is the one that applies.

When to stop

Stop use and ask a doctor if you feel eye pain or changes in your vision, if irritation or redness continues, or if the condition worsens or persists for 72 hours.

What the label doesn’t cover

An eye injury isn’t what a lubricating drop is for. Injuries need emergency care, not a drop. Eye symptoms that need a doctor sets out the lines.