An ophthalmic preparation useful for effective prevention or treatment of irritation to corneal or conjunctival epithelial cells as measured by Lissamine Green staining, in particular irritation due to causes other than infection, is disclosed. The preparation comprises an aqueous solution of glycerol. In other embodiments, the preparation may comprise additional components including high molecular weight polymers for viscosity control and pharmacologically active substances. The use of the preparation in the prevention or treatment of irritation to corneal or conjunctival epithelial cells, and a method for preventing or treating irritation to corneal or conjunctival epithelial cells are also disclosed.
