Is Sodium Hyaluronate The Same As Hyaluronic Acid Eye Drops?

Sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are often used interchangeably in eye care, particularly in the context of eye drops. However, while they are closely related, there are subtle differences that set them apart. Understanding these distinctions can help businesses, manufacturers, and end-users make informed decisions about the most suitable options for their needs.

What is Sodium Hyaluronate?

Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the body. It retains moisture, provides lubrication, and supports tissue repair. In the context of eye drops, sodium hyaluronate is preferred due to its stability, solubility, and ease of formulation. It is widely used in products for dry eye relief, ocular surgery, and post-operative recovery.

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Differ?

Hyaluronic acid is the base molecule from which sodium hyaluronate is derived. While hyaluronic acid shares the same hydrating and lubricating properties, it is less stable in its pure form and more susceptible to pH changes. As a result, most eye drop formulations opt for sodium hyaluronate to ensure longer shelf life and consistent performance.

Why is Sodium Hyaluronate Commonly Used in Eye Drops?

1. Enhanced Stability: Sodium hyaluronate is more chemically stable than hyaluronic acid, ensuring that eye drops maintain their effectiveness over time.

2. High Bioavailability: It penetrates the ocular surface efficiently, delivering hydration and lubrication directly to where it’s needed.

3. Viscoelastic Properties: Sodium hyaluronate provides a gel-like consistency, creating a protective barrier on the eye’s surface that reduces tear evaporation and soothes irritation.

4. pH Compatibility: Sodium hyaluronate aligns better with the natural pH of the eye, minimizing the risk of irritation.

Applications in Eye Drops

Both sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are used to alleviate dry eye symptoms, improve tear film stability, and protect the ocular surface. Sodium hyaluronate is often featured in:

• Daily Hydration Drops: For mild to moderate dry eye relief.

• Post-Surgical Eye Care: To support healing and reduce discomfort after ocular surgeries.

• Contact Lens Comfort: To alleviate dryness and irritation caused by prolonged lens wear.

Are They the Same?

In practical terms, sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid serve the same purpose in eye care—providing hydration, lubrication, and comfort. However, sodium hyaluronate’s enhanced stability and formulation benefits make it the preferred choice in most eye drop products.

Conclusion

While sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are chemically related, sodium hyaluronate offers superior stability, solubility, and bioavailability, making it the dominant ingredient in modern eye drop formulations.

If you’re seeking high-quality sodium hyaluronate for eye care products, RUNXIN Biotech provides premium-grade solutions tailored to your specific needs. With over 28 years of expertise in hyaluronic acid development, we ensure the highest standards of quality and performance. Contact us today to learn more about our innovative offerings!