What it is
Amniotic eye drops, sometimes called amniotic eye serums, are drops or liquid preparations made from tissue that comes from the amniotic membrane, the thin inner layer of the placenta. After processing, the material may be offered as a drop, a suspension, or a similar liquid form.
Regulatory status matters here. Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices, such as tissue that is placed on the eye's surface, are regulated instead as human tissue products, which is a different pathway. These are not the same thing, so it helps to ask exactly which kind of product is being discussed.
They are also different from autologous serum tears, which are compounded by a pharmacy from a patient's own blood and are not an FDA-approved drug either. Most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing, so they should not be thought of as stem-cell treatments.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Dry eye and eye surface discomfort have long been approached in many ways. Common starting points have included over-the-counter artificial tears, lifestyle and environment adjustments, and eyelid care, with eye doctors tailoring suggestions to the person.
Eye doctors have also used prescription options, in-office procedures, and other approaches depending on what an evaluation finds. Which of these is appropriate is a decision for a licensed clinician, not a one-size-fits-all path.
Amniotic-derived products are one more area that some eye doctors and patients have discussed, usually in situations where other approaches have been considered. Opinions among professionals vary, and no product is guaranteed to work for any individual.
How the right eye doctor may help
The right eye doctor may help you sort through the options in a calm, organized way. A visit generally begins with a conversation about your symptoms, your history, and what you have already tried, followed by an examination of the surface of your eyes.
Based on what they find, a provider may explain which approaches could be reasonable for you and which may not be. They can also tell you whether a product you have read about is a drug, a device, or a human tissue product, and what that means for you.
If amniotic eye drops come up, consider asking: What is the specific product and where does its tissue come from? How is it processed and stored? What is its FDA or regulatory status? What is the total cost, and what are the alternatives? Always have a licensed eye doctor evaluate you before using any such product.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect each other. Ongoing eye discomfort can be tiring and frustrating, and stress or poor sleep can make symptoms feel more noticeable. Looking at the whole person, including rest, screen habits, and emotional well-being, is a reasonable part of caring for your eyes alongside any eye care.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helpful for easing tension. Others prefer talk therapy, which you can explore through Therapists.plus. These are complements to, not replacements for, care from your eye doctor, and no approach is better than another for everyone.
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed eye doctor can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation, so please do not start or stop any product on your own.
- Most amniotic eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs, and no product should be assumed to cure, reverse, or regenerate tissue.
- Sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or an eye injury need prompt professional attention; for emergencies call 911.
- If you are feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, call or text the 988 Lifeline.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
What are amniotic eye drops?
Amniotic eye drops are liquid preparations made from processed amniotic membrane tissue, the inner layer of the placenta. They are sometimes marketed for eye surface concerns such as dry eye. A licensed eye doctor can explain whether a particular product is appropriate for you.
Are amniotic eye drops FDA-approved?
Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, which is a different pathway. Ask your provider about the specific product's regulatory status.
Can amniotic eye drops be used for dry eye treatment?
Some eye doctors and patients discuss amniotic products as part of dry eye treatment conversations, but results are not guaranteed and approaches vary. A licensed eye doctor must evaluate you first. They can explain established options alongside any newer ones.
Are amniotic eye drops the same as stem-cell treatments?
No, they should not be considered stem-cell treatments. Most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing. Ask the provider how the specific product is processed.
How are amniotic eye drops different from autologous serum tears?
Autologous serum tears are compounded by a pharmacy from your own blood, while amniotic drops come from donated amniotic tissue. Neither is an FDA-approved drug. Your eye doctor can explain how they differ in source, preparation, and cost.
What should I ask my eye doctor about amniotic eye drops?
Ask about the specific product, where its tissue comes from, how it is processed, and its FDA or regulatory status. Also ask about the total cost and what other options exist. A licensed eye doctor's evaluation should come before any use.
Educational resource. Placenta-Derived Eye Serum shares general information and connects people with independent eye doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.