FDA compliance

Mermaid Tears™ is registered with the FDA as an over-the-counter drug. Its NDC number is 83437-002-10.  You may verify this information and view our full drug label information at DailyMed.*

Mermaid Tears™’s unique, 100% natural biologic protein extract has been sterilized using millipore filtration and bottled in chilled cleanrooms that meet all FDA CGMP regulations.

Mechanism of action

Mermaid Tears™ stimulates the production of mucin, thickening and stabilizing the tear film and increasing the dwell time of the basal aqueous layer. Mucin production is controlled by a number of genes which can be up-regulated.

Our proprietary ingredient BOPE™ contains transcription factor proteins which temporarily activate the mucin genes, thereby thickening the mucin layer. A partial list of these transcription factors includes SP1, AP-1, C/EBP, AFT/CREB, c-Myc, Oct-1, and NF-1.

Off-label indications

The mucin layer is the least understood layer of the tear film, and is the next target for pharmacologic manipulation.

Mermaid Tears™ may be quite beneficial in patients with dry eye disease, aqueous deficient dry eye disease, evaporative dry eye disease, sicca syndrome, Sjogren syndrome, limbal stem cell deficiency and other conditions where there is insufficient mucin production, and / or enhanced mucin layer thickness might improve the stability of the tear film.

Unlike many other dry eye therapies, Mermaid Tears™ appears to treat both signs and symptoms of ocular surface dryness and inflammation.

Dosage and risks

Since Mermaid Tears™ is non-preserved, dry eye patients may instill it as often as once per hour. 

We believe there is no risk of pupil deformity or expansion of the semi-lunar fold if the eyes are not in contact with salt water during use.

Special opportunities

for sports medicine eye care providers

As an eye care provider, you can purchase Mermaid Tears™ from us at a 50% cost reduction compared to the web price offered to patients. This lets you mark each bottle up 100% and sell it in the office at a competitive price.

During beach season, patients appreciate the option to obtain Mermaid Tears™ from their trusted eye doctor at the last minute. We offer free marketing materials suitable for placement next to sunglasses displays.

*We had no trouble creating this entry once our chief scientist figured out how to navigate the FDA’s OTC drug listing process.  We are 100% legal here.  The software doesn’t let you cheat.