Dry eye is a multifactorial disease characterized by tear hyperosmotic and ocular surface inflammation. Complex pathogenesis and recurrent attacks are the main features of it. Recent studies have proposed that immune reaction and neurosensory abnormalities are also involved in its pathogenesis. With the continuous exploration of its etiology and pathogenesis, the treatment methods are also constantly improving. The traditional medical treatments consist of physical therapy, pharmaceutical and surgery, in which drug plays an important role. According to etiology and pathogenesis of dry eye, the drugs of it are classified into two categories. One is to improve the quality and stability of tear film, including tear substitutes (such as autologous serum, vitamins and artificial tear complemented with aqueous solution, mucin and lipid), secretagogues (such as aqueous and mucous secretion stimulants) and omega-3 fatty acid supplements. Secondly, more effective, ophthalmic pharmacological drugs targeting various distinct etiology of dry eye have been investigated in improving the ocular surface microenvironment. The corresponding drugs include glucocorticoid eyedrops, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, adhesion factor inhibitors, other treatments in new anti-inflammatory models, antibiotics, reconstruction of microecological balance, antioxidants, neuroprotectants and so on.(Int Rev Ophthalmol, 2020, 44：331-339)