New artificial tear containing hyaluronic acid, low-dose hydrocortisone shows promise in DED

Prolonged use of the new artificial tear solution containing hyaluronic acid (HA) and low-dose hydrocortisone is beneficial, even in the initial stages of DED, according to a study.

In this randomized, controlled, double-masked study, patients who had been experiencing DED symptoms for ≥6 months underwent an initial 7-day treatment with a corticosteroid before being divided into 2 groups, 1 receiving the new artificial tear solution 4 times a day for 6 months, while the other group received a control HA solution.

A significant improvement in the frequency and intensity of DED symptoms in both groups was noted. However, after discontinuation of the corticosteroid treatment, the therapeutic advantage was observed only in the group that received the new artificial tear solution. Moreover, this group exhibited a significant enhancement in tear film break-up time (P ≤ 0.05) and a reduction in infiltrated macrophages (P < 0.05).

Further analysis revealed a significant decrease in both fluorescein and Lissamine staining (P < 0.05) among the patients using the new tear solution. This reduction indicates a potential mitigation of damage at the corneal and conjunctival levels.

The authors noted, intraocular pressure remained stable throughout the treatment period and within the normal range, indicating the safety of the product.

Reference
Rolando M, Villella E, Loreggian L, et al. Long-Term Activity and Safety of a Low-Dose Hydrocortisone Tear Substitute in Patients with Dry Eye Disease. Curr Eye Res. 2023;1-6. doi: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2214948. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37334889.