New Artificial Tear Formula Assessed
A new artificial tear formulation appears to effectively treat dry eye disease as well as another available treatment, according to a randomized, double-masked trial involving 188 individuals. Moreover, it may lead to improvement earlier.
Investigators compared carboxymethylcellulose 1.0% and glycerin 0.9% (CMC-GLY) with carboxymethylcellulose 1.0% (CMC) in participants with moderate to severe dry eyes. They first used CMC 0.5% for seven days and then were randomized into one of the groups. Investigators evaluated Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score, corneal and conjunctival staining, tear break-up time (TBUT), symptoms, and safety at baseline, day seven, and day 30. Among the results:
- OSDI scores improved over time and were similar in both groups.
- CMC-GLY patients experienced statistically significant improvements between baseline and day 7 in OSDI score, corneal staining, and TBUT.
- CMC-GLY patients had lower dose frequency at day seven.
Lievens, C. Evaluation of an enhanced viscosity artificial tear for moderate to severe dry eye disease: A multicenter, double-masked, randomized 30-day study. [Published online ahead of print December 17, 2018]. Contact Lens and Anterior Eye. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clae.2018.12.003.
