Scope Health has launched a new addition to its OPTASE line of dry eye-targeting ophthalmic products: HYLO FORTE Eye Drops.
First, a quick refresh on this brand.
The OPTASE brand launched in 2016 with a product lineup of dry eye management solutions such as eye drops, sprays, moist heat masks, eyelid wipes, and gels.
A key component of these products: Their use of preservative-free (PF) ingredients to treat all types (and severity stages) of dry eye—including meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis.
- See here for the latest news on Scope and OPTASE.
Now to HYLO … this isn’t its first product, right?
Not at all; just the latest. The original OPTASE HYLO Relief drops (intended to relieve dry eye symptoms for contact lens wearers) were introduced to the U.S. market in 2021 as part of a broader rollout of the HYLO product line.
Also included in this: OPTASE HYLO Night Eye Ointment.
And these latest drops?
Referred to as an “advanced artificial tear,” the OPTASE HYLO FORTE eye drops are intended for:
- Moderate-to-severe dry eye
- Contact lens-related dryness
- Dryness pre-/post-surgery
Its formulation: A multi-action PF formulation with active glycerin for hydration—reported to provide “extra moisture and protection for long-lasting dry eye relief.”
- See here for the full ingredient list.
And is hyaluronic acid included in this formulation?
But of course. Notably, the drops feature Scope’s “highest concentration of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW HA).”
Quick refresh: HMW HA is critical (and beneficial) because of its superior physical and biological properties that enable an eye drop to more effectively project and heal the ocular surface.
Why: Such molecules are both larger and more viscous (versus lower molecular weight HA), allowing them to stay on the eye’s surface for a longer duration—resulting in extended lubrication and moisture retention.
Exactly how high is this highest concentration?
While there’s no specific number that translates to the “optimal” molecular weight for HA in eye drops—and, as we mentioned, Scope offered no specific concentration amount regarding the HYLO FORTE drops—a HMW of >500 kDa is typically recommended.
And something to keep in mind: HMW HA has been linked to anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-cancer properties—not to mention a more effective dry eye treatment effect.
Hold up. Is HA listed as an active ingredient then?
It’s not. (Again, see here the full list).
Should it be, though?
Good question. While the inclusion of HA in eye drops (and, thus, their therapeutic benefits) can—and often does—result in it (HA) being treated as an active ingredient, it really comes down to how “active ingredient” is defined in the ophthalmic product itself.
Editor’s note: We reached out to OPTASE for clarification regarding this.
Their response:
- "OPTASE HYLO Forte features Glycerin as its active ingredient, in accordance with the FDA OTC lubricant monograph. Among the inactive ingredients, Sodium Hyaluronate (commonly known as hyaluronic acid) is included. The inactive high molecular weight hyaluronic acid works in conjunction with the active glycerin to contribute to the formulation's higher viscosity and non-Newtonian shear thinning properties."
Noted. So how does the drop work, exactly?
When topically administered, the drop spreads quickly and evenly (with minimal blur) across the eye to form an adaptive viscoelastic network that’s "thermally activated by the eye temperature.”
- Click here for step-by-step instructions on how to administer the drop.
What this does: Creates and provides protective cushioning and hydration to stabilize a disrupted tear film and protect against lens wear-caused friction.
- Take note: The OPTASE HYLO FORTE drops also come with a delivery system designed to guarantee 300 calibrated eye drops (per each 0.33 fl oz multi-use bottle) with a 6-month shelf life.
Lastly, where can I purchase these?
Click here for purchasing options from OPTASE, Amazon, and Walmart.
- Pricing will vary.
As for what patients are saying so far about these drops…check out the customer reviews.
This article was updated on Sept. 10, 2025, to include the company's response.