What it is
Amniotic eye drops are liquid preparations made from amniotic tissue or fluid, which comes from the sac surrounding a baby during pregnancy and is usually donated after a planned delivery. Some are sold as drops, and others are marketed as serums or extracts.
Regulatory status matters here. Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane products placed on the eye are regulated differently, as human tissue products, which is a separate pathway from drug approval. These categories should not be confused with one another.
These products are also different from autologous serum tears, which are compounded by a pharmacy from a person's own blood and are likewise not an FDA-approved drug. Most processed amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells, so they should not be thought of as stem-cell treatments.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Dry eye has long been approached in steps. Many people begin with over-the-counter artificial tears, lid hygiene, and changes to their environment or screen habits, often guided by an eye care professional.
Eye doctors may also evaluate related factors such as eyelid gland health, inflammation, contact lens use, medications, and other health conditions. Prescription options and in-office procedures exist, and a clinician chooses among them based on an exam.
Biologic options such as autologous serum tears or amniotic-derived products have been discussed in eye care for more severe or stubborn surface problems. Whether any of them is appropriate is a decision for a licensed clinician after an evaluation, and approaches vary from practice to practice.
How the right eye doctor may help
The right ophthalmologist may help by starting with a thorough dry eye evaluation. A visit generally includes a conversation about your symptoms, health history, medications, and daily habits, followed by an examination of the surface of your eyes and eyelids.
Based on what they find, the doctor may talk through a range of possibilities, from standard approaches to less conventional ones. They can explain whether a given option may be suitable for you, what is known and unknown about it, and what alternatives exist. No outcome is guaranteed.
If amniotic eye drops come up, consider asking: What is the specific product, and where does the tissue come from? How is it processed and stored? What is its FDA or regulatory status? What is the total cost, including follow-up visits? How would we monitor my eyes, and what would signal a problem? You can also ask how it compares with autologous serum tears or other options.
The whole-person view
Eyes, body, and mind influence each other. Ongoing eye discomfort can disrupt sleep, focus, and mood, and stress, poor sleep, and tension can in turn make symptoms feel more intense. Looking at the whole person, including rest, hydration, screen time, and overall health, is a reasonable part of caring for your eyes.
If chronic discomfort is wearing on you, support for the body and mind may complement your eye care. Somatic Experiences offers body-based support for stress, and Therapists.plus can connect you with talk therapy. These are not substitutes for an eye exam, and no approach is better than another for everyone.
Keep in mind
- Amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are mostly not FDA-approved as drugs, so ask any provider about the specific product, its source, processing, regulatory status, and total cost.
- Only a licensed eye doctor can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation, so avoid self-treating or buying products online without professional guidance.
- Sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or eye injury need prompt professional care; call 911 for emergencies, and call or text 988 if you are in crisis.
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a promise of any result.
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Frequently asked questions
Which type of doctor can I see for amniotic eye drops?
An ophthalmologist, a medical doctor who specializes in eye care, is a common starting point, and some optometrists also treat dry eye. Look for a provider who does thorough dry eye evaluations and is willing to explain the product, its source, and its regulatory status. Availability varies by practice.
Are amniotic eye drops FDA-approved?
Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices placed on the eye are regulated as human tissue products, which is a different pathway. Ask your provider exactly how the specific product is regulated.
What is the best dry eye treatment?
There is no single best dry eye treatment because causes differ from person to person. An eye doctor evaluates your eyes and history before discussing what may be appropriate. Options range from everyday measures to prescription or in-office approaches.
Are amniotic eye drops the same as autologous serum tears?
No. Autologous serum tears are compounded by a pharmacy from your own blood, while amniotic eye drops come from donated amniotic tissue. Neither is an FDA-approved drug, and a licensed eye doctor can explain how they differ.
Are amniotic eye drops stem-cell treatments?
No, they should not be considered stem-cell treatments. Most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing. Be cautious of any marketing that suggests otherwise, and ask the provider about processing.
What should I ask an ophthalmologist before trying amniotic eye drops?
Ask what the product is, where it comes from, how it is processed, and what its FDA or regulatory status is. Also ask about total cost, follow-up visits, risks, and alternatives. A good provider will welcome these questions.
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.