What it is
Autologous serum tears are eye drops that a pharmacy prepares from a person's own blood. The blood is processed and diluted, and the result is used as a lubricating drop. The word "autologous" simply means it comes from the same person who uses it.
These drops are compounded, which means a pharmacy makes them for an individual patient after a prescription. Autologous serum tears are not an FDA-approved drug. Whether they are appropriate for a particular person is something only a licensed clinician can decide after an evaluation.
You may also see amniotic-derived eye drops or serums mentioned online. Most of these are also not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices follow a different path and are regulated as human tissue products. These are separate categories, so it's worth asking any provider exactly which product is being discussed.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Dry eye has long been approached in steps, often beginning with over-the-counter artificial tears and simple habits like taking screen breaks or adjusting the environment. Eye doctors may also look at the eyelids, the oil glands, and other factors that affect the surface of the eye.
Serum tears have traditionally been considered by some eye doctors when more common approaches haven't been enough for a particular person. They are generally discussed in specialized settings, and availability varies by provider and by pharmacy.
Different clinicians have different views on when, or whether, to consider them. That's normal. A comparison of options with a provider you trust is often more useful than a single answer from a website.
How the right eye doctor may help
A good first step is a dry eye evaluation with a licensed eye doctor. A visit generally includes talking through your symptoms, health history, medications, and daily habits, followed by an examination of the surface of your eyes. The right provider may help you understand what is contributing to your discomfort.
If serum tears come up, you might ask: Why do you think this may suit me? What are the alternatives? Which pharmacy prepares them, and how is the product sourced, processed, and stored? What is its FDA or regulatory status? What is the total cost, including any follow-up visits and supplies? What would you watch for, and when should I call you?
It can help to bring a written list, a list of current drops and medications, and a trusted person if you like. You are always free to ask for time to think, or to seek a second opinion. No provider can promise a particular result.
The whole-person view
Eyes, body, and mind affect one another. Ongoing discomfort can be tiring and stressful, and stress, poor sleep, and tension can in turn make symptoms feel louder. Looking at the whole person, including rest, screen habits, and overall health, is a reasonable part of caring for your eyes.
Some people find that body-based support such as Somatic Experiences helps them tune into stress held in the body. Others prefer talk therapy through Therapists.plus. These are optional supports that can sit alongside, not replace, care from your eye doctor.
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed eye doctor can decide if serum tears or any other option is appropriate after an evaluation.
- Autologous serum tears are not an FDA-approved drug, and most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not either, so ask about regulatory status for any product.
- Sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or an eye injury can be urgent. Call 911 for emergencies, and call or text 988 if you are in crisis.
- This page is educational only and does not offer diagnosis, treatment plans, or medical advice.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
What questions should I ask before trying serum tears?
Ask why the doctor thinks serum tears may suit you and what the alternatives are. Also ask about the pharmacy, the sourcing and processing, the FDA or regulatory status, and the total cost. Finally, ask what to watch for and when to call the office.
Are serum tears FDA-approved?
No, autologous serum tears are not an FDA-approved drug. They are compounded by a pharmacy from a patient's own blood after a prescription. Ask your eye doctor how this applies to your situation.
Is serum tears a good dry eye treatment for everyone?
No single dry eye treatment suits everyone. Whether serum tears are appropriate depends on your eyes, health history, and a licensed eye doctor's evaluation. No outcome can be promised.
Are amniotic eye drops the same as serum tears?
No, they are different. Serum tears come from your own blood, while amniotic products come from donated tissue. Most amniotic eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs, and some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, a different pathway.
Do amniotic eye products contain stem cells?
Generally no. Most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing, and they should not be described as stem-cell treatments. Ask any provider about how their specific product is processed.
How do I find an eye doctor to talk about serum tears?
Start by looking for a licensed eye doctor who offers dry eye evaluations, and ask whether they have experience with the options you're curious about. A directory like Providers.plus can help you find licensed providers. Bring your questions to the visit and feel free to get a second opinion.
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.