More than half of patients will buy an eye drop from a pharmacist within three weeks of experiencing symptoms of dry eye disease, according to eye treatment medical supplier Scope Group.

More than 40% of 250 patients with the disease surveyed in August 2015 said they would seek advice from a pharmacist within the same time period, according to Scope Group, which commissioned the research.

When deciding which eye drop to buy, the most important factors for patients are a recommendation by a healthcare professional and having a product that is easy to use, the supplier said.

Scope Group launched a new eye drop for dry eye disease in October. Hycosan Fresh contains plant-based extract euphrasia, which reduces the irritation and redness associated with dry eyes, it said. It also contains sodium hyaluronate to help eyes stay lubricated for longer, Scope Group added.

Patients who wear contact lenses can use the product, which stays sterile for six months thanks to its bottle design, Scope Group claimed.

To order, call 0800 270 0253.