Global OTC Artificial Tears Market Size and Forecast, 2025–2033

Introduction

The global healthcare landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation driven by self-care, accessibility, and consumer empowerment. Among the many over-the-counter (OTC) product categories gaining traction, artificial tears stand out as one of the fastest-growing segments within ophthalmic care. Once regarded as a simple comfort product, artificial tears are now central to everyday eye health routines for millions of people worldwide.

According to Renub Research, the OTC Artificial Tears market is projected to grow from US$ 4.70 billion in 2024 to US$ 7.22 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 4.88% from 2025 to 2033. This steady rise reflects a convergence of factors including rising screen time, increasing environmental stressors, greater consumer awareness of eye health, and the growing availability of eye care products across retail and public access locations.

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Understanding the OTC Artificial Tears Market

Artificial tears are ophthalmic solutions designed to lubricate and hydrate the eye surface, offering relief from dryness, irritation, burning, and redness. They mimic the properties of natural tears and are commonly used to manage symptoms of dry eye disease (DED)—a condition affecting people across all age groups.

The OTC artificial tears category includes:

Preservative-free formulations for sensitive eyes

Multi-dose lubricating drops

Gel-based and long-lasting formulations

Lipid-based drops that stabilize tear film

What distinguishes OTC products is their easy accessibility without prescription, making them a first-line option for millions seeking immediate and affordable eye comfort.

Key Drivers of Market Growth

1. Rising Prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye disease has become a global concern due to increased exposure to digital screens, air-conditioned environments, pollution, and aging populations. Professionals working long hours on computers and smartphones experience reduced blink rates, which significantly contributes to ocular dryness.

2. Expanding Public Access to Healthcare Products

Artificial tears are now widely available in shopping malls, airports, pharmacies, and convenience stores. This increased retail penetration has removed barriers to eye care, allowing consumers to treat symptoms promptly without medical appointments.

3. Growing Awareness of Eye Health

Public health campaigns, optometrist recommendations, and rising consumer education have elevated eye care from a niche concern to a mainstream wellness priority. Consumers now view artificial tears as a daily preventive solution rather than an occasional remedy.

4. Product Innovation and Formulation Advancements

Manufacturers are investing heavily in preservative-free drops, nanotechnology-based delivery systems, lipid-layer stabilizers, and long-acting lubricants, making artificial tears safer, more effective, and suitable for chronic use.

Top Companies in the Global OTC Artificial Tears Market

AbbVie Inc.

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in the United States, AbbVie is a leading biopharmaceutical company with a strong presence in eye care. The company leverages deep expertise in ophthalmology, backed by global manufacturing and a strong R&D ecosystem. Its ability to innovate and distribute globally gives it a competitive edge in artificial tear solutions.

Akorn Inc.

Established in 1971, Akorn specializes in ophthalmic, sterile, and non-sterile pharmaceuticals. The company offers a wide range of OTC eye care products, including artificial tears in various dosage forms. Its strong presence across hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies supports consistent market penetration.

Alcon

Founded in 1945 and headquartered in Switzerland, Alcon is a global leader in ophthalmic devices and eye care products. Known for its scientific rigor and clinical research, Alcon’s artificial tear solutions are widely used by patients managing dry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive errors.

Bausch Health Companies Inc.

Established in 1960 and based in Canada, Bausch Health offers a diversified portfolio across eye health, dermatology, and consumer healthcare. Its OTC artificial tears are widely distributed across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia, strengthening its global footprint.

Johnson & Johnson

Founded in 1886, Johnson & Johnson remains one of the most influential healthcare corporations globally. With a strong focus on vision care and medical devices, the company’s artificial tear products benefit from extensive R&D, trusted branding, and broad retail accessibility.

Product Launches Driving Innovation

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (April 2023)

Sun Pharma launched CEQUA® in India, the first dry eye treatment in the country delivered using nanomicellar (NCELL®) technology. The product targets inflammation associated with dry eye disease, marking a major advancement in ophthalmic drug delivery.

Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (February 2025)

Through a strategic partnership with Abdi İbrahim, Rohto reintroduced its innovative eye care products to Türkiye. The collaboration enhances Rohto’s footprint in international OTC eye health markets, emphasizing product quality and accessibility.

SWOT Analysis: Competitive Insights

Abbott Laboratories Inc.

Strength:

Abbott’s strong brand reputation and ophthalmic expertise position it as a trusted provider of artificial tears. Its global distribution network, research-driven product development, and emphasis on preservative-free formulations enhance customer confidence and long-term market leadership.

Cipla Limited

Strength:

Cipla’s competitive advantage lies in affordable innovation and deep penetration in emerging markets. Its focus on accessible pricing, regulatory-compliant manufacturing, and extensive retail presence across India and Africa enables widespread adoption of its OTC eye care products.

Recent Developments Shaping the Market

Nicox S.A. (May 2025)

Nicox reported positive results from its Phase 3b Whistler trial evaluating NCX 470, a nitric oxide-donating ophthalmic solution. While focused on intraocular pressure, the study highlights ongoing innovation in eye care, reinforcing confidence in advanced formulations across the broader ophthalmic market.

URSAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH (September 2024)

URSAPHARM expanded its eye care portfolio with EvoTears® OMEGA, targeting lid margin inflammation and meibomian gland dysfunction. The product improves tear film stability and addresses symptoms like dryness, burning, and irritation—key drivers for artificial tear demand.

Sustainability Objectives in Eye Care

Novartis AG

Novartis aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 and net-zero emissions by 2040. Its sustainability initiatives include renewable energy use, waste reduction, responsible sourcing, and equitable access to healthcare. These commitments strengthen consumer trust and align eye care innovation with environmental responsibility.

CooperVision Inc.

CooperVision has committed to a net-zero plastic footprint, offsetting the plastic used in its products. The company promotes circular economy practices through recycled packaging, energy-efficient manufacturing, and water conservation. Its social programs focus on improving vision care in underserved communities worldwide.

Market Segmentation

The OTC Artificial Tears Market is segmented based on:

Product Type: Preservative-free, multi-dose, gel-based, lipid-based

Formulation: Solution, gel, ointment

Distribution Channel: Pharmacies, supermarkets, online retail, hospitals

End Users: Individuals with dry eye syndrome, contact lens users, aging population, office professionals

Each segment reflects varying consumer preferences, pricing sensitivity, and frequency of use, contributing to diverse growth patterns across regions.

Historical Trends and Forecast Analysis

Historically, artificial tears were viewed as short-term relief products. Over the past decade, however, rising digital dependence, environmental challenges, and growing life expectancy have transformed them into daily wellness essentials.

From US$ 4.70 billion in 2024, the market is projected to reach US$ 7.22 billion by 2033, supported by:

Increasing diagnosis of dry eye disease

Technological improvements in ophthalmic formulations

Expansion of OTC healthcare in emerging markets

Consumer preference for non-prescription, affordable care

Market Share and Competitive Landscape

Leading companies such as AbbVie, Alcon, Johnson & Johnson, and Bausch Health dominate through strong branding, R&D investments, and global distribution. Meanwhile, regional players like Cipla, Rohto, and URSAPHARM strengthen competition by offering cost-effective and specialized solutions.

The competitive environment emphasizes:

Innovation in preservative-free products

Sustainability-driven packaging

Expansion in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East

Strategic Outlook for Key Players

Across the top 20 companies—including AbbVie, Akorn, Alcon, Bausch Health, Johnson & Johnson, Nicox, Novartis, Santen, Sun Pharma, Abbott, Cipla, Rohto, CooperVision, Prestige Consumer Healthcare, AFT Pharmaceuticals, URSAPHARM, OCuSOFT, OASIS Medical, Laboratoires Théa, and GBN Pharmaceuticals—common strategies include:

Product differentiation through advanced formulations

Sustainable manufacturing and packaging

Partnerships and regional expansions

Increased investments in ophthalmic R&D

These companies are also aligning operations with ESG principles, focusing on renewable energy, water conservation, waste management, and equitable healthcare access.

Final Thoughts

The Global OTC Artificial Tears Market reflects a broader shift in healthcare: one where consumers prioritize accessibility, preventive care, and daily wellness. What was once a niche product category has evolved into an essential component of modern life, driven by digital lifestyles, environmental stress, and heightened health awareness.

With the market expected to reach US$ 7.22 billion by 2033, artificial tears are no longer just a temporary fix—they represent a long-term solution embedded in personal healthcare routines. Supported by innovation, sustainability, and expanding global access, the OTC artificial tears industry is poised to remain a vital pillar of eye health for the next decade and beyond.