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Polyethylene glycol 400

Generic Name
Polyethylene glycol 400
Brand Names
Blink Tears, Colirio Ocusan, Leader Lubricant Eye Drops, QC ultra lubricant eye, Systane, Tears Lubricant, Visine Dry Eye Relief
Drug Type
Small Molecule
CAS Number
25322-68-3
Unique Ingredient Identifier
B697894SGQ

Overview

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are products made of condensed ethylene oxide and water that can contain various derivatives and have various functions. Because many PEG types are hydrophilic, they are favorably used as enhancers of penetration, and used heavily in topical dermatological preparations. PEGs, along with their many nonionic derivatives, are widely utilized in cosmetic products as surfactants, emulsifiers, cleansing agents, humectants, and skin conditioners. Polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) is a low-molecular-weight grade of polyethylene glycol with a low-level toxicity. It is very hydrophilic, which renders it a useful ingredient in drug formulations to augment the solubility and bioavailability of weakly water-soluble drugs. It is used in ophthalmic solutions for the relief of burning, irritation and/or discomfort that follows dryness of the eye . PEG "400" indicates that the average molecular weight of the specific PEG is 400 . PEGylation occurs when PEGs are attached to numerous protein medications, allowing for greater solubility for selected drugs. Examples of PEGylated medications are PEG-interferon alpha (Pegintron) and PEG-filgrastim. In addition, PEG is available as a bowel preparation for colonoscopy procedures and as a laxative .

Background

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are products made of condensed ethylene oxide and water that can contain various derivatives and have various functions. Because many PEG types are hydrophilic, they are favorably used as enhancers of penetration, and used heavily in topical dermatological preparations. PEGs, along with their many nonionic derivatives, are widely utilized in cosmetic products as surfactants, emulsifiers, cleansing agents, humectants, and skin conditioners. Polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) is a low-molecular-weight grade of polyethylene glycol with a low-level toxicity. It is very hydrophilic, which renders it a useful ingredient in drug formulations to augment the solubility and bioavailability of weakly water-soluble drugs. It is used in ophthalmic solutions for the relief of burning, irritation and/or discomfort that follows dryness of the eye . PEG "400" indicates that the average molecular weight of the specific PEG is 400 . PEGylation occurs when PEGs are attached to numerous protein medications, allowing for greater solubility for selected drugs. Examples of PEGylated medications are PEG-interferon alpha (Pegintron) and PEG-filgrastim. In addition, PEG is available as a bowel preparation for colonoscopy procedures and as a laxative .

Indication

PEG-400 has been indicated for the temporary relief of burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye, andfor protection against further irritation and desiccation , , .

Associated Conditions

  • Constipation
  • Dry Eyes

FDA Approved Products

Colirio Ocusan
Manufacturer:DLC Laboratories, Inc.
Route:OPHTHALMIC
Strength:10 mg in 1 mL
Approved: 2025/04/18
NDC:24286-1575
Ocusan Dry Eyes
Manufacturer:DLC Laboratories, Inc.
Route:OPHTHALMIC
Strength:4 mg in 1 mL
Approved: 2025/04/18
NDC:24286-1292
Discount Drug Mart Eye Drops Multi-Symptom Relief
Manufacturer:Discount Drug Mart, Inc.
Route:OPHTHALMIC
Strength:1 g in 100 mL
Approved: 2024/01/01
NDC:53943-490
GoodSense Eye Drops Advanced Relief Moisturizer
Manufacturer:Preferred PHarmaceuticals Inc.
Route:OPHTHALMIC
Strength:1 g in 100 mL
Approved: 2025/05/07
NDC:68788-8635

Singapore Approved Products

No Singapore products found for this drug

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