Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) eye drops are a specialized treatment prepared from your own blood, used for advanced eye surface conditions to promote healing.
| Drug class | Blood-Derived |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Eye Drop |
| Common strength | Autologous |
| Common Indian brands | Hospital/lab-prepared |
| Prescription status | Prescription (hospital-prepared) |
What Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) is used for
Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) eye drops are a highly specialized treatment used for certain advanced and persistent conditions affecting the surface of your eye. These conditions often involve damage or slow healing of the delicate tissues covering the front of your eye.
- Advanced ocular surface disease
- Persistent defects on the eye surface
Your ophthalmologist will determine if PRGF eye drops are the right treatment for your specific eye condition. They are typically considered when other standard treatments have not been fully effective or for more severe cases requiring enhanced healing.
How it works
Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) works by harnessing your body’s natural healing power. When you get a cut or injury, your body sends special proteins called ‘growth factors’ to the area to help it repair and regenerate. PRGF eye drops are made from a small sample of your own blood, which is processed to concentrate these very growth factors.
When these growth-factor-rich eye drops are applied to your eye, they deliver a concentrated dose of these natural healing proteins directly to the damaged ocular surface. These growth factors then stimulate the cells on your eye’s surface to repair themselves, grow new healthy tissue, and reduce inflammation. This helps to promote faster and more effective healing of persistent defects and advanced ocular surface diseases, leading to a healthier and more comfortable eye.
How it’s used
PRGF eye drops are a prescription medicine and must be used exactly as directed by your ophthalmologist. The typical dosing involves applying the eye drops 4 to 6 times a day. Your doctor will provide you with a specific schedule tailored to your condition.
Here are general instructions on how to apply eye drops:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the eye drops.
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket.
- Hold the dropper bottle upside down with the other hand, positioning it directly over your eye. Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface, as this can contaminate the drops.
- Gently squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the pocket you created.
- Close your eye gently for a minute or two, without squeezing or blinking excessively, to allow the medicine to spread across the eye surface.
- If you need to apply more than one drop, wait a few minutes between drops.
- If you are using other eye drops, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different types of drops. Your doctor will advise you on the correct order if you are using multiple medications.
- After use, replace the cap tightly on the bottle.
- Wash your hands again to remove any excess medicine.
It is crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the frequency and duration of use. Do not stop using the drops without consulting your ophthalmologist, even if your eye feels better, as this could affect the healing process.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Hospital/lab-prepared
Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.
Good to know
Prescription eye medicine — use only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. This is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Precautions & side effects
Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) eye drops are a specialized treatment that requires careful handling and administration. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:
- Autologous Preparation: PRGF eye drops are ‘autologous,’ meaning they are prepared from your own blood. This significantly reduces the risk of allergic reactions or rejection, but it also means the preparation process is highly specialized and unique to each patient.
- Specialised Preparation: These eye drops are not commercially manufactured in a factory. Instead, they are prepared in a hospital or specialized laboratory setting using a sample of your blood. This ensures the highest quality and safety for your specific treatment.
- Prescription Medicine: PRGF eye drops are a prescription-only medicine. They must be prescribed and monitored by a qualified ophthalmologist. Do not attempt to self-medicate or use drops prescribed for someone else.
- Hospital/Clinic Use Only: Due to their specialized nature and preparation, PRGF eye drops are typically administered or provided to you under the guidance of specialists in a hospital or clinic setting. They are never for self-preparation or self-use outside of professional medical supervision.
- Storage: Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding the storage of your PRGF eye drops. They often require specific temperature control to maintain their effectiveness.
- Hygiene: Always maintain strict hygiene when handling and applying eye drops to prevent contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after use, and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface.
- Reporting Concerns: If you experience any unusual symptoms, discomfort, redness, increased pain, or vision changes after using the drops, contact your ophthalmologist immediately.
Remember, this page provides general information. Always discuss any concerns or questions you have with your ophthalmologist, who is the best source of advice for your specific condition.
Understanding Ocular Surface Disease and Persistent Defects
The ocular surface refers to the delicate front part of your eye, including the cornea (the clear window), the conjunctiva (the white part and inside of the eyelids), and the tear film. This surface is vital for clear vision and protecting your eye from the environment. When this surface is healthy, your eyes feel comfortable and see well.
However, various factors can lead to ‘ocular surface disease,’ a broad term for conditions that affect the health and function of these tissues. This can range from common dry eye to more severe issues caused by injuries, infections, inflammation, or certain medical conditions. In some cases, these diseases can lead to ‘persistent defects,’ which are areas on the eye surface that struggle to heal properly, even with standard treatments. These defects can cause significant discomfort, pain, blurred vision, and increase the risk of further complications if left untreated. Symptoms might include persistent dryness, grittiness, redness, light sensitivity, and a feeling of something being in your eye. Your ophthalmologist will carefully examine your eyes to diagnose the specific condition and determine the most appropriate course of treatment, which may include specialized therapies like Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) eye drops.
Correct Eye Drop Application and Hygiene
Using eye drops correctly is crucial for their effectiveness and to prevent complications. Many people find applying eye drops a bit tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your eyes or eye drop bottle. This is the most important step to prevent introducing germs into your eye. When applying drops, tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper bottle above your eye, being careful not to let the tip touch your eye, eyelashes, or any other surface. Squeeze gently to release one drop into the pocket. Close your eye gently for a minute or two, allowing the medicine to spread. Avoid squeezing your eyes shut or blinking rapidly, as this can push the medicine out. If you need to use more than one drop, wait a few minutes between each drop. If you are using different types of eye drops, your doctor will advise you on the correct order and the waiting time between them, usually 5-10 minutes. Always replace the cap tightly immediately after use.
General Eye Care and When to Seek Help
Maintaining good eye hygiene and following your doctor’s advice are key to managing eye conditions and promoting overall eye health. Always store your eye drops as instructed by your ophthalmologist, as some specialized drops like PRGF may require refrigeration. Never use eye drops that have expired or appear cloudy or discolored. Do not share your eye drops with anyone else, as they are prescribed specifically for your condition and could be harmful to others. If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will advise you on whether and when you can wear them while using PRGF eye drops; often, it’s recommended to avoid contact lenses during treatment.
It’s important to be vigilant about your eye health and know when to seek professional medical help. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, severe eye pain, persistent redness, discharge from your eye, increased sensitivity to light, or if your symptoms worsen despite using your prescribed medication, contact Pristine Eye Hospitals or your ophthalmologist immediately. These could be signs of a complication or that your treatment needs adjustment. Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the effectiveness and safety of your treatment. Remember, your eyes are precious, and timely medical attention can make a significant difference in preserving your vision and eye health.
Frequently asked questions
What are Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) eye drops used for?
PRGF eye drops are a specialized treatment used for advanced ocular surface disease and persistent defects on the eye's surface. They help promote healing in conditions where the delicate tissues of the eye are damaged or slow to repair.
How do PRGF eye drops work?
PRGF eye drops are made from your own blood and contain concentrated 'growth factors.' These natural proteins stimulate the cells on your eye's surface to repair themselves, grow new healthy tissue, and reduce inflammation, thereby promoting healing.
What brands of PRGF eye drops are available in India?
PRGF eye drops are not commercial brands. They are hospital/lab-prepared, meaning they are custom-made for each patient in a specialized hospital or laboratory setting from a sample of their own blood.
How often should I use PRGF eye drops?
The typical dosing for PRGF eye drops is 4 to 6 times a day. However, you must follow the specific instructions and schedule provided by your ophthalmologist.
Do I need a prescription for PRGF eye drops?
Yes, PRGF eye drops are a prescription-only medicine. They are prepared and given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and are never for self-use. You must use them only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist.
What are the key precautions I should take when using PRGF eye drops?
PRGF eye drops are autologous (made from your own blood) and require specialized preparation. Always use them only as directed by your ophthalmologist, maintain strict hygiene during application, and report any unusual symptoms immediately. Do not self-medicate or reuse old prescriptions. They are only for use under professional medical supervision.
References
- PRP vs. PRGF Eye Drops: What's the Difference?
- The Use of Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) for Ocular Surface Disorders: A Systematic Review
- Dry Eye – National Eye Institute
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.