The Xailin brand, manufactured by VisuFarma, encompasses a family of ocular lubricants designed to treat dry eye syndrome. Given that different causes and symptoms define dry eye, a single universal product is rarely sufficient. As such, the specific active ingredient in a bottle of Xailin is dependent on the type of product chosen. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the most appropriate and effective treatment for your specific dry eye needs. Below, we break down the most common Xailin formulations and their respective active components.
Xailin HA and Xailin Plus: Sodium Hyaluronate
For products like Xailin HA and the preservative-free version, Xailin Plus, the primary active ingredient is sodium hyaluronate. This is a naturally occurring biopolymer found in many tissues of the body, including the eye.
How does sodium hyaluronate work?
Sodium hyaluronate is a highly effective humectant, meaning it attracts and binds large amounts of water, helping to thicken and stabilize the tear film.
- Enhanced Tear Film Stability: The viscoelastic properties of sodium hyaluronate improve the consistency of the tear film, reducing its rate of evaporation.
- Lubrication: It provides a lubricating layer that reduces friction and irritation during blinking.
- Promotes Healing: Research has shown that sodium hyaluronate can help promote the healing of the ocular surface epithelium, which can be damaged by chronic dry eye.
Xailin Hydrate: Hypromellose
Xailin Hydrate contains hypromellose, a lubricating agent also known as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. Hypromellose is a semisynthetic polymer that is inert and viscoelastic.
How does hypromellose work?
Similar to sodium hyaluronate, hypromellose functions by mimicking natural tears to restore the tear film.
- Protective Film: It forms a protective, lubricating film over the surface of the eye, prolonging the tear film's stability.
- Moisture Retention: It improves the adhesion of artificial tears to the cornea and conjunctiva, enhancing moisture retention on the ocular surface.
Xailin Fresh: Carmellose Sodium
Xailin Fresh single-dose vials are formulated with carmellose sodium, also known as carboxymethylcellulose sodium. These preservative-free drops are designed for intermittent or persistent dry eye and are suitable for contact lens wearers.
How does carmellose sodium work?
Carmellose sodium acts as a lubricating agent that hydrates and nourishes the surface of the eye to alleviate dry eye symptoms such as burning, redness, and grittiness.
Xailin Gel: Carbomer 980
For more long-lasting relief, Xailin Gel uses carbomer (specifically Carbopol 980) as its active ingredient. This product is delivered as a gel that offers sustained lubrication.
How does carbomer work?
Carbomer is a synthetic polymer that forms a viscous, transparent gel.
- High Viscosity: The gel's viscosity allows it to remain on the eye's surface for an extended period, providing prolonged lubrication and protection.
- Protective Barrier: This protective barrier aids in the self-repair of damaged ocular surface epithelial cells by creating a moist and shielded environment.
Xailin Night: Paraffins, Mineral Oil, and Lanolin Alcohols
Xailin Night is an eye ointment specifically designed for bedtime use to provide strong, overnight relief from dry eye sensations. Its active ingredients are a combination of white soft paraffin, white mineral oil, and lanolin alcohols.
How do these ingredients work?
These ointment ingredients create a powerful barrier that prevents the evaporation of the eye's natural moisture while you sleep.
- Moisture Barrier: White soft paraffin and white mineral oil form a robust film on the surface of the eye to seal in moisture.
- Protection: This barrier protects the eye from overnight moisture loss, ensuring you wake up with more comfortable and less irritated eyes.
Comparison of Xailin Product Formulations
| Product | Active Ingredient(s) | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Xailin HA / Plus | Sodium Hyaluronate | Long-lasting lubrication for moderate-to-severe dry eye. |
| Xailin Hydrate | Hypromellose | Immediate relief and moisture for dry eye symptoms. |
| Xailin Fresh | Carmellose Sodium | Soothing relief for mild-to-moderate dry eye symptoms. |
| Xailin Gel | Carbomer (Carbopol 980) | Sustained, long-lasting lubrication for dry eye. |
| Xailin Night | White Soft Paraffin, White Mineral Oil, Lanolin Alcohols | Intensive night-time relief and protection from dry eye. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no single active ingredient for the Xailin brand of eye drops. The active ingredient depends entirely on the specific formulation you choose, whether it's Xailin HA, Hydrate, Fresh, Gel, or Night. Each product is expertly designed with a distinct active ingredient or combination of ingredients to address varying degrees and types of dry eye symptoms, from mild irritation to severe, overnight dryness. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific product label and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable option for your particular condition. Always follow the administration instructions for the specific product you are using to ensure both safety and efficacy.
For more detailed information on the mechanism of action of key ingredients like sodium hyaluronate, you can consult research from the National Institutes of Health.
