Visine

Adverse effects

Visine has been observed to cause stinging and burning upon application, and has a rebound effect that may cause eye redness to worsen.[10][11] Prolonged use has been observed to cause blood vessels to be dilated for an extended period of time. Because of this risk, Visine usage has been recommended to be limited, unless specified by a doctor.[12] Some formulations of Visine are not advised for contact lens wearers as the decreased blood flow to counter eye redness could further lower oxygen levels to the eye.[12] Some Visine products are not recommended to be used by patients with glaucoma, since stimulation from lubrication can contribute to high pressure within the eye. Certain underlying health conditions that cause eye irritation are not able to be relieved by Visine and require prescription-grade eye drops.[13]

Ingestion

A debunked urban legend claims that a few drops of Visine will cause harmless but debilitating bouts of explosive diarrhea, similar to a laxative.[14] However, symptoms of Visine's active ingredient tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride can be severe, and can include: Oral ingestion of Visine warrants immediate medical attention or a call to a poison control center.[15]

The film Wedding Crashers misrepresents the effects of Visine consumption which can be lethal.[16]

• Dangerously low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Blurred vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty breathing or cessation of breathing
• Elevated blood pressure (hypertension) followed by sudden low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Coma
• Seizures and tremors
• Death