Is Visine Bad For You?
Also Known As: Visine eye drops
Short answer
Visine is safe for most people. However, just like most over the counter remedies, it shouldn't be abused. Be sure to check with your doctor if you're taking any medications, or are pregnant or nursing.
A fairly even ratio of beneficial and harmful qualities. Moderation is important. Very general topics that can lean towards both sides of the spectrum will be placed here as well. Rice, for example, can be good or bad depending on the type.
View Full Grading System
Category 'A'
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Side effects are rare. Things rated an 'A+' are typically necessary for survival (for example, water).
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. A few harmful qualities may be associated, but only under certain circumstances such as an allergic reaction.
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Harmful qualities may be associated, but aren't usually serious.
It is important to note that even the best things in life can become bad in immoderate amounts. So, although something may be rated an 'A+', overconsumption/overdoing can bring unwanted effects.
Category 'B'
Very beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B+' may have a few harmful qualities to pay attention to.
Overall beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B' may have some harmful qualities to pay attention to.
More beneficial to your health than not. However, harmful qualities are most likely associated and shouldn't be overlooked.
The main difference between category 'A' and category 'B' is the harmful qualities typically present in 'B' items. Serious side effects are usually uncommon, but are still possible and should be taken note of.
Category 'C'
Both beneficial and harmful qualities associated. Things rated a 'C+' are typically a bit more on the beneficial side. Still, moderation is important.
A fairly even ratio of beneficial and harmful qualities. Moderation is important. Very general topics that can lean towards both sides of the spectrum will be placed here as well. Rice, for example, can be good or bad depending on the type.
More harmful than beneficial. Side effects are common, especially when consumed/done excessively. Moderation is very important.
Category 'C' usually denotes to both good and bad qualities. When it comes to this category, it is important to keep this word in mind: moderation.
Category 'D'
Harmful to your health. Although benefits may be associated, the bad most likely outweighs the good. Moderation is very important.
Harmful to your health. A few benefits may be associated, but the bad outweighs the good. Moderation is extremely important.
Harmful to your health. Very few, if any, benefits are present. Things in this category should be avoided as much as possible.
Category 'D' is typically for things that are more harmful than beneficial. While consuming/doing something unhealthy once in a blue moon shouldn't hurt, we definitely recommend eliminating 'D' items as a regular part of your routine/diet.
Category 'F'
Category 'F' is for things that fail to bring anything beneficial to the table, and are very harmful to your health. We recommend completely avoiding anything in this category. Long-term side effects of 'F' items are usually very serious.
Category 'N'
'N' stands for neutral. Things placed into this category are generally (a) neither good nor bad for you, or (b) lack the necessary evidence to reach any conclusions.
Long answer
There aren't very many of us who haven't used Visine here and there in order to ease our burning eyes and get rid of redness. However, while Visine does these things well, there are some things to be wary of when using it. Is Visine bad for you? Let's find out.
According to many Ocular Pharmacologists and Doctors, using Visine while you are pregnant or breastfeeding isn't recommended. Also, some nonprescription medicines, herbal preparations, and even dietary supplements can create negative interactions with Visine. People with narrow-angle glaucoma, an overactive thyroid, or high blood pressure should also double check with their personal health professional before using Visine.
Minor possible side effects of Visine can include, but aren't limited to, blurring, tearing, stinging of the eye and sometimes dilation of the pupils. Major side effects can include rashes, hives, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling in the mouth, on the face, lips or tongue. Any change in vision, as well as eye pain and headache, are also need for concern. Extended use over time can even cause excessive redness of the eyes. Definitely seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these serious side effects.
Many people are turning to alternative solutions to sore and red eyes these days. An herbal, homeopathic preparation called Ruta 30c seems to be something many people are fond of for dry and red eyes. For those suffering from red and sore eyes due to allergies, Opcon-A has had very good results for some people.
Possible short-term side effects
- blurring
-
tearing
-
stinging of the eyes
-
pupil dilation
-
eye pain
-
headache
-
change in vision
Possible long-term side effects
- rashes
-
hives
-
shortness of breath
-
chest tightness
-
facial swelling
-
reverse effects
Ingredients to be aware of
- potassium chloride
-
tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride
Benefits
- relieve eye redness
-
relieve burning of the eyes
-
relieve dry eyes
Healthier alternatives
- ruta 30c
-
other herbal remedies
Please turn your Ad Blocker off to see this content. Thank you!
Thank you for your feedback!
Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-28-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016
Thank you for your feedback!
Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-28-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016
Approved by 
