What it is
Autologous serum tears are eye drops made from a person's own blood. "Autologous" simply means "from the same person." The idea is to use the liquid part of your blood, called serum, which naturally contains a number of components also found in natural tears.
In general terms, the process begins with a clinician-ordered blood draw. The blood is allowed to separate, the serum is isolated, and it is then diluted with a sterile solution and placed into dropper containers by a compounding pharmacy. Exact steps, dilution, handling and storage vary by pharmacy and are directed by the prescribing clinician, so they are not something to attempt or adapt at home.
Regulatory status matters here. Autologous serum tears are pharmacy-compounded from the patient's own blood and are not an FDA-approved drug. They are prepared under a clinician's order for a specific patient. Because they are made from blood and used on the eye, sterility and quality of preparation are important topics to discuss with a provider.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Autologous serum tears have traditionally been discussed as an option within dry eye care when over-the-counter artificial tears have not felt like enough. They are typically considered by eye doctors after an evaluation, not as a first step for everyone.
Traditionally, dry eye care has included a range of approaches, such as lubricating drops, lifestyle and environmental adjustments, in-office procedures and prescription products. Which of these fits a person depends on the underlying cause, and only a licensed clinician can determine that.
Autologous serum is one of several approaches people read about. Some people also hear about amniotic-derived eye drops, which are different products. Most of those are also not FDA-approved as drugs, and some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, which is a separate pathway. These products should not be confused with one another.
How the right eye doctor may help
The right eye doctor may start by listening to your symptoms, reviewing your health history and examining the surface of your eyes. They may run tests to understand what is behind your dryness. A visit like this is about gathering information, and it does not mean any particular treatment will be recommended.
If autologous serum tears come up, a doctor may explain whether they might be a reasonable consideration for your situation, or whether other options make more sense. Nothing is promised or guaranteed, and results vary from person to person.
Good questions to ask include: Who prepares the drops, and how are they made, handled and stored? What is the regulatory status of what I am being offered? What would the total cost be, and what might insurance consider? What are the risks, and what should I watch for? How will we check whether this is appropriate for me over time?
The whole-person view
Eye discomfort rarely stays only in the eyes. Ongoing dryness, irritation or blurry vision can affect sleep, focus and mood, and stress or tension can in turn make people more aware of physical discomfort. Body, mind and stress influence one another.
Some people find it helpful to pair medical care with supportive practices. Somatic Experiences offers body-based support for how stress is held in the body, and Therapists.plus can connect you with talk therapy if living with a chronic condition feels heavy. These are complements to, not replacements for, an eye doctor's care.
Keep in mind
- Autologous serum tears are pharmacy-compounded from your own blood and are not an FDA-approved drug; only a licensed eye doctor can decide whether they are appropriate after an evaluation.
- Do not try to make eye drops from your own blood at home, as sterility is critical for anything placed in the eye.
- Sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or a painful red eye need prompt professional attention; for emergencies call 911.
- If dry eye is affecting your emotional well-being and you are 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
How are autologous serum tears made?
Autologous serum tears are made from a person's own blood, drawn under a clinician's order. The serum is separated from the blood, diluted with a sterile solution by a compounding pharmacy, and placed in dropper containers. Exact steps vary by pharmacy and prescriber, so ask your eye doctor about the specifics.
Are autologous serum tears FDA-approved?
No, autologous serum tears are not an FDA-approved drug. They are compounded by a pharmacy from the patient's own blood for a specific patient under a clinician's order. Ask your provider about the regulatory status and how they are prepared.
Can I make autologous serum tears at home?
No, they should not be made at home. Sterility and careful handling are essential for anything placed in the eye, and preparation is done by a pharmacy under a clinician's direction. Talk with a licensed eye doctor if you are interested.
Who decides if autologous serum tears are right for dry eye treatment?
Only a licensed eye doctor can decide, after an evaluation of your eyes and health history. They may consider your symptoms, the cause of your dryness and other options. Nothing is guaranteed, and results vary.
Are autologous serum tears the same as amniotic eye drops?
No, they are different products. Autologous serum tears come from your own blood, while amniotic-derived drops come from donated tissue. Most amniotic eye drops are also not FDA-approved as drugs, and some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, a different pathway.
What should I ask my eye doctor about autologous serum tears?
Ask who prepares them, how they are made and stored, and what their regulatory status is. Also ask about the risks, the total cost, and whether insurance may be involved. Bringing these questions can help you understand if they fit your situation.
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.