Using multiple AT products may be the best option for dry eye

A study featured in the European Journal of Ophthalmology has demonstrated the efficacies of three different artificial tears (AT) and that a combination of these may offer the best solution to corneal surface diseases affecting eye lubrication.

Dr Gil Calvão-Santos et al., Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Entre o Duoro e Vouga-Unidade de Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal, split 27 patients with dry eye symptoms into 4 groups. Group A was administered Tears Again, B was given Optive, C received Opticol and D was the control group.

Patients were observed on day 0, 7 and 30 after being administered the AT. Data analysis was conducted, as well as tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer tests and Ocular Surface Disease Index.

The findings demonstrated no significant differences between any of the groups. From day 0 to 30 the amount of eyes with abnormal TBUT was reduced. However, eyes presenting with an average TBUT increased in all groups and Schirmer value decreased in groups B, C and D, but increased in group A.

Tear film was recovered in all of the AT groups, but AT targeting just the internal and intermediate layer caused a small decline on lachrymal production. It was suggested that different types of AT should be used on different layers of the eye for the treatment of corneal surface diseases affecting eye lubrication.