What it is
Amniotic membrane is the thin inner layer of the amniotic sac, the tissue that surrounds a baby during pregnancy. It is typically donated after a planned birth, then screened, processed and preserved for use in eye care and other fields.
In dry eye conversations, the phrase can refer to a few different things: amniotic-derived eye drops or serums, and amniotic membrane devices or grafts placed on the surface of the eye. These are not the same, and they are regulated differently.
Regulatory status matters. Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices are instead regulated as human tissue products, which is a different pathway. These products are also not stem-cell treatments, since most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Dry eye has traditionally been approached in steps, often starting with over-the-counter artificial tears, lifestyle and environment adjustments, and care for the eyelids and the glands along them. Many people work with an eye doctor to find what fits their situation.
For more stubborn surface problems, eye doctors have also used other options, such as prescription drops, procedures, or autologous serum tears. Autologous serum tears are compounded by a pharmacy from the patient's own blood and are not an FDA-approved drug.
Amniotic membrane products have been used by some eye care professionals for certain eye surface concerns. Whether any of them is appropriate depends on the individual, and only a licensed clinician can decide after an evaluation.
How the right eye doctor may help
A good eye doctor visit generally starts with a conversation about your symptoms, your history, the medications you take, and your daily habits such as screen time and sleep. The doctor then examines the surface of your eyes and may look at your tears and eyelids to understand what may be contributing to dry eye treatment needs.
If amniotic membrane products come up, the right provider may explain whether they could be a reasonable thing to consider for you, what the alternatives are, and what is and isn't known. A thoughtful provider will not promise results.
Questions worth asking: What exactly is this product, and is it a drop, a serum or a device? Where does the tissue come from and how is it processed? What is its FDA or regulatory status? What are the possible risks? What is the total cost, including follow-up visits? Are there other options to consider first?
The whole-person view
Your body, mind and stress affect each other. Ongoing eye discomfort can disrupt sleep, focus and mood, and stress, poor sleep and tension can in turn make symptoms feel more noticeable. Looking at the whole person can be a helpful complement to eye care.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helps them tune into stress held in the body. Others prefer talk therapy, which may be found through Therapists.plus. Neither replaces an eye exam, and every approach can have its place.
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed eye doctor can evaluate your eyes and decide what is appropriate for you; this page is not medical advice.
- Amniotic eye drops and serums are mostly not FDA-approved as drugs, autologous serum tears are pharmacy-compounded and not FDA-approved, and some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products.
- Sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or an eye injury can be emergencies; call 911 or seek emergency care right away.
- 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 is amniotic membrane for dry eye?
Amniotic membrane for dry eye refers to products made from donated amniotic tissue that some eye doctors use for certain eye surface concerns. These include drops, serums and membrane devices placed on the eye. Whether any of them is appropriate for you is something only a licensed eye doctor can decide after an evaluation.
Is amniotic membrane for dry eye 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 from drug approval. Ask your provider about the specific product's regulatory status.
Are amniotic eye drops stem-cell treatments?
No, they should not be described as stem-cell treatments. Most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing. Ask your provider how a specific product is sourced and processed.
How is amniotic membrane different from autologous serum tears?
Autologous serum tears are compounded by a pharmacy from your own blood, while amniotic products come from donated tissue. Neither autologous serum tears nor most amniotic drops and serums are FDA-approved drugs. A licensed eye doctor can explain how they differ and whether either is worth discussing for you.
Will amniotic membrane cure my dry eye?
No one can promise that. Amniotic products are not known to cure dry eye, and results vary from person to person. An eye doctor may help you understand what to realistically expect and which options fit your situation.
What should I ask my eye doctor about dry eye treatment with amniotic products?
Ask what the product is, where the tissue comes from, how it is processed, and what its FDA or regulatory status is. Also ask about possible risks, alternatives, and the total cost including follow-up visits. 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.