There are many eyedrops available of late claiming to cure all known eye problems: cataracts, errors of refraction, even retinal detachment. If this sounds too good to be true, you’re right.

There is no magic bullet for all eye diseases. Unfortunately, many people have bought into this false claim.

The drop, which is water-based, says it contains vitamins and minerals such as manganese, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and potassium. While true that these elements can be beneficial to the eye’s health, the fact that they are in water and without any preservatives means the contents can easily be contaminated. Potassium can irritate the eye as well.

This eyedrop says it can cure pterygium, a fleshy conjunctival mass that develops from sun exposure. Unfortunately, no drug can cure this condition. Only surgery can resolve it. Same goes for retinal detachment— the longer you wait to have it checked and treated, the more it can progress and worsen your prognosis.

This product is on sale online- you can find it on Facebook, Shopee or Lazada. It’s that easy to fall prey to it. Sellers have photos claiming it has approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Yet, simple research revealed that the FDA warns the public against it— it is unregistered and poses a health risk to consumers ( https://www.fda.gov.ph/fda-advisory-no-2019-189-public-health-warning-against-the-purchase-and-use-of-the-unregistered-drug-product-hyssop-mineral-drops-15-ml/ ).

Let’s be wary of these “cures”. Any product that promises to rid you of all your ailments should alarm you. If the claims were real, then we would all be immortal and perfect, right? Don’t be a victim. If you’re unsure about medications, consult your doctor first before using them.