What it is
Amniotic eye drops and serums are products made from amniotic tissue or fluid, which comes from the tissue surrounding a baby during pregnancy. They are usually offered for eyes that feel dry, irritated or uncomfortable, including people searching for dry eye treatment options.
Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices, such as tissue placed on the eye's surface, are regulated differently, as human tissue products. These are separate pathways, and one should not be confused with the other.
Processing matters. Most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing, so they should not be described as stem-cell treatments. Sources, handling and preparation can differ between products, which is one reason side effects and experiences may differ too.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Eye care has long relied on over-the-counter artificial tears, gels and ointments for comfort. Eye doctors have also looked at the lids, the tear film and the surface of the eye to understand why eyes feel dry.
Autologous serum tears are another approach. They are compounded by a pharmacy from the patient's own blood. They are not an FDA-approved drug, and a licensed clinician decides whether they are appropriate.
Amniotic products are a newer addition to that conversation. Because many of these drops are not FDA-approved drugs, the information about how people respond can be less standardized. Reports of side effects, whether mild or more serious, are worth raising with an eye doctor rather than judging on your own.
How the right eye doctor may help
A licensed eye doctor may start by asking about your symptoms, your health history, the products you already use, and any past reactions to drops. They may examine the surface of your eyes to understand what's going on before any product is discussed.
If an amniotic product comes up, you can ask about possible side effects, and what signs should prompt you to call the office. A doctor can explain how they weigh the potential benefits against the risks for your situation, and whether other options might fit better. None of this is a promise of any outcome.
Useful questions include: What is the specific product and where does it come from? How is it processed and stored? What is its FDA or regulatory status? Is it a drop, a serum or a device? What is the total cost, including follow-up visits? A good provider will welcome these questions.
The whole-person view
Your eyes are part of your whole body. Sleep, screen habits, general health and stress can all affect how your eyes feel, and ongoing discomfort can in turn affect your mood and focus. Looking at the whole picture may help you feel more in control.
Some people find that body-based support such as Somatic Experiences helps them tune in to stress held in the body, and others value talk therapy through Therapists.plus. These are optional complements and do not replace an eye doctor's evaluation.
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed eye doctor can decide whether any product is appropriate for you after an evaluation, and licensed professionals should guide your care.
- Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs, and no product should be assumed to cure or reverse an eye condition.
- Contact your eye doctor promptly if you notice pain, redness, swelling, discharge or vision changes after using any eye product. For an emergency, call 911, and if you are in crisis, call or text 988.
- Do not stop or start any prescribed treatment based on this page alone.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
What are the side effects of amniotic eye drops?
Because most amniotic eye drops are not FDA-approved drugs, there is no single standard list of side effects to point to. Any eye product can potentially cause irritation, redness, stinging or an allergic-type reaction in some people. Ask a licensed eye doctor what to watch for with the specific product being discussed.
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 regulatory status of the exact product.
Are amniotic eye drops stem-cell treatments?
No, they should not be described that way. Most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing. Ask the provider how the specific product is prepared.
Can amniotic eye drops be used for dry eye treatment?
Some providers offer them in conversations about dry eye treatment, but they are not guaranteed to help, and most are not FDA-approved drugs. A licensed eye doctor can evaluate your eyes and explain whether any option makes sense for you.
What should I do if my eyes react badly to eye drops?
Contact your eye doctor promptly, and follow their guidance. If you have severe pain, sudden vision changes or another emergency, call 911. Bring the product's packaging or details to your visit if you can.
What should I ask before trying amniotic eye drops?
Ask about the product's source, how it is processed, its FDA or regulatory status, possible side effects and the total cost. It's also reasonable to ask about alternatives. An evaluation by a licensed eye doctor should come before 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.