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Ophthalmic insert improved dry eye symptoms, quality of life among patients with ocular comorbidities
Cornea. 2010;29(12):1417-1427.
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A hydroxypropyl cellulose ophthalmic insert minimized dry eye symptoms and improved quality of life in patients with moderate to severe dry eye syndrome in a recent study. The insert also showed potential for helping to reduce dry eye symptoms in patients with ocular comorbidities.
The multicenter, open-label study enrolled 520 patients, 418 of whom completed a questionnaire at baseline and 1 month after treatment. Study participants included 86 contact lens wearers, 79 with cataracts, 52 with prior cataract surgery, 22 with prior LASIK and 15 with glaucoma.
Each participant received 58 Lacrisert (hydroxypropyl cellulose) 5-mg ophthalmic inserts and was instructed to use them bilaterally once daily for 1 month. Patients using concomitant therapy for dry eye were permitted to maintain therapy if needed.
Researchers observed statistically significant improvements in mean ocular surface disease index scores (P = .0215), as well as improvements in symptoms of discomfort, burning, dryness, grittiness, stinging and light sensitivity (P < .05).
Among patients with comorbid conditions, mean improvement in ocular surface disease index scores were significant for contact lens wearers (P < .025), those with prior cataract surgery (P < .04) and those with prior LASIK (P < .05), but not for patients with cataracts or glaucoma.
Patients with comorbid conditions reported a similar relief of symptoms, benefit to daily activities and quality of life as patients without comorbid conditions, according to the study.
The authors noted limitations in the study design and scope of data collected and recommended that follow-up studies examine additional factors.
A large patient registry such as this one represents “real world” conditions. In every practice, there is a large group of patients with dry eye that are dissatisfied with the level of symptom relief they have achieved. We hope to help them achieve the comfort they seek, as well as help them preserve the health of their ocular surface. The significant improvement in the signs and symptoms of dry eye and in performance of activities of daily living over only 4 weeks of treatment with the Lacrisert ophthalmic insert suggests that this medication may help accomplish both goals. Contact lens wearers who have a high incidence of dry eye also demonstrated significant improvements, even while wearing lenses.
Incorporating the Lacrisert insert in treatment of moderate to severe dry eye patients can provide even dissatisfied patients relief from symptoms and result in improvements in their ability to perform daily activities. Most of these patients are willing to learn the simple application instructions, and will appreciate the continuous lubrication and constant protection it offers.
– David L. Kading, OD, FAAO
Kirkland,
Wash.
Disclosure: Dr. Kading has no direct financial interest in Lacrisert.