What it is
Autologous serum tears are eye drops made from a person's own blood. A pharmacy that compounds them separates the serum, which is the liquid part of blood, and dilutes it with a sterile solution. The word autologous simply means the material comes from the same person who uses it.
Regulatory status matters here. Autologous serum tears are pharmacy-compounded and are not an FDA-approved drug. This is different from amniotic-derived eye drops and serums, most of which are also not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, which is a separate pathway.
Because these are individually prepared, details can differ from one source to another. Preparation, storage, handling and the pharmacy involved may all play a role in what a person experiences, which is why side effects are best discussed with the clinician who knows your eyes and health history.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Eye doctors have traditionally considered autologous serum tears for people whose eyes feel persistently dry or irritated and who have not found comfort with other approaches. Whether they are appropriate is a decision for a licensed clinician after an evaluation.
When people ask about side effects, common topics include stinging, irritation or discomfort, concerns about contamination if drops are not handled or stored properly, and the practical burden of getting blood drawn and obtaining the drops. Individual experiences vary, and this list is not complete.
Other approaches to dry eye that eye doctors have long discussed include over-the-counter lubricating drops, lifestyle and environment adjustments, and in-office procedures. No single approach suits everyone, and none can be promised to work.
How the right eye doctor may help
The right eye doctor may start by listening to your symptoms and history, then examining the surface of your eyes. A dry eye evaluation can help clarify what may be contributing to your discomfort before any specific product is considered.
If autologous serum tears come up, a provider may explain what is known about them, what the possible downsides are for you, and whether other options might fit better. They may also review any health conditions or medications that could affect that decision.
Helpful questions to ask include: What side effects should I watch for, and who do I contact if they occur? Which pharmacy prepares the drops, and how are they processed and stored? What is the regulatory status of this product? What is the total cost, including the blood draw and any follow-up visits? What are my alternatives?
The whole-person view
Eyes do not exist apart from the rest of you. Long screen hours, poor sleep, stress and overall health can all influence how the eyes feel, and ongoing discomfort can in turn affect mood and focus. Looking at the whole person can be a helpful way to think about comfort.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helps them tune into tension and stress. Others value talking with a licensed counselor through Therapists.plus. These are complements to, not replacements for, care from your eye doctor.
Keep in mind
- Autologous serum tears are pharmacy-compounded from your own blood and are not an FDA-approved drug; most amniotic-derived drops and serums are also not FDA-approved as drugs.
- Only a licensed eye doctor can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation, so please do not start, stop or change any drops on your own.
- Sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, significant redness or signs of infection need prompt professional attention. For emergencies call 911, and if you are in a crisis call or text 988.
- This page is educational and does not diagnose, treat or promise any result.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the side effects of autologous serum eye drops?
Side effects vary from person to person, and only your eye doctor can tell you what to expect. Topics people commonly raise include stinging or irritation and concerns about contamination if the drops are mishandled. Ask your provider what to watch for and whom to contact if something feels wrong.
Are autologous serum eye drops FDA-approved?
No, autologous serum tears are not an FDA-approved drug. They are compounded by a pharmacy from the patient's own blood. Ask your eye doctor about the regulatory status and the pharmacy that would prepare them.
Is autologous serum a good dry eye treatment?
Whether it fits as a dry eye treatment depends on your eyes, history and an evaluation by a licensed eye doctor. It may be discussed for some people, but results cannot be promised. Your provider can explain the possible benefits, downsides and alternatives.
Are autologous serum tears the same as amniotic eye drops?
No, they are different. Autologous serum tears come from your own blood, while amniotic products come from donated amniotic tissue. Most amniotic-derived eye drops are not FDA-approved as drugs, and they should not be described as stem-cell treatments, since most contain no living stem cells after processing.
Can autologous serum eye drops cause infection?
Any eye drop that is contaminated can raise the risk of eye irritation or infection, so careful preparation, storage and handling matter. Ask your provider and the compounding pharmacy how the drops are made and stored. Seek prompt care for eye pain, worsening redness or vision changes.
What should I ask my eye doctor before trying autologous serum tears?
Ask about possible side effects, the source and processing of the drops, their regulatory status, the total cost, and alternative options. It also helps to ask what follow-up looks like. A dry eye evaluation is a good first step.
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.