Can I use Systane every day?

Many people use artificial tears daily. Ask an eye doctor if you need them many times each day.

Can I use Systane with contact lenses?

Only use versions labeled for contact lenses while lenses are in. Otherwise, remove lenses first.

Why does Systane blur my vision?

Thicker drops, gels, and ointments can blur vision until they spread out or clear.

When should I see an eye doctor?

See an eye doctor for pain, light sensitivity, vision loss, discharge, injury, or dryness that keeps coming back.

Treatment

Systane Artificial Tears

Also known as Systane Lubricant Eye Drops, Systane Ultra, Systane Complete, Dry Eye Lubricating Drops, Artificial Tears

Updated May 19, 2026·For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for medical advice. See our terms.

Bottom Line

Systane is a family of artificial tears. These drops lubricate dry or irritated eyes but do not treat infection, injury, or inflammation.

Systane products are lubricant eye drops for dry eye symptoms. One Systane Ultra label lists polyethylene glycol 400 and propylene glycol as active lubricants ¹.

Dry eye can cause burning, scratchiness, redness, and blurry vision that comes and goes. Artificial tears are one common treatment option ².

Get checked for eye pain, vision loss, injury, thick discharge, or redness that does not improve. Lubricating drops can soothe symptoms but may not treat the cause.

Product Family

Systane is not one single formula. The family includes drops, preservative-free vials, gels, and ointments.

Ingredients and contact lens directions can differ by bottle. Read the active ingredient panel before using a new version.

How To Use

Wash your hands before using any eye drop. Do not touch the bottle tip to your eye or lashes.

Use the number of drops listed on your bottle.
Wait at least 5 minutes between different eye products.
Use only lens-safe drops while contacts are in.
Throw away single-use vials after opening.

Side Effects and Safety

Artificial tears may blur vision for a short time. Some people feel brief stinging when the eye surface is very dry.

Stop and get care for eye pain, vision loss, injury, thick discharge, or redness that worsens. These are not simple dry eye symptoms.

Cost and Insurance

Systane is usually bought without a prescription. Insurance coverage is uncommon for over-the-counter artificial tears.

Bottles often cost less per drop.
Single-use vials often cost more.
Coupons or store brands may lower cost.
Severe dry eye may need covered prescription care.

Common Questions About Systane

Systane lubricates the eye surface. It can ease symptoms, but it does not treat every cause of dry eye.

Next Steps

1Choose the Systane version that matches your symptoms and contact lens needs.
2Use drops as directed on the bottle.
3Track how often you need tears each day.
4Ask about preservative-free drops if you use tears often.
5Schedule an eye exam for pain, vision loss, discharge, or persistent dryness.

Find specialists for Systane Artificial Tears

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