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Microplastics identified in commercial over-the-counter lubricant eyedrops

Eye 2025
Julia Jaeger, Matthew J. Burke, Duoduo Wu, Emily Curren, Sandric Chee Yew Leong, Robert Symons, Blanche Xiao Hong Lim, Xinyi Su, Jodhbir S. Mehta, Andri K. Riau, Chris Hong Long Lim

Summary

Researchers conducted extensive quantification of microplastic contamination in commercial over-the-counter lubricant eyedrops, finding MPs in multiple product brands at concentrations suggesting direct ocular exposure with each application. The study identified a previously unrecognized route of microplastic exposure with potential implications for eye health.

Models

This study provides the most extensive quantification of microplastic contamination in commercial eyedrops to date, highlighting a major, under-recognised source of ocular exposure. These particles may arise from secondary degradation of plastic vials during production, transportation, storage, or during instillation, or introduced from other sources during production and represent a major source of exposure to the ocular surface, especially among patients who require chronic instillation of eyedrops.

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