Epub 2008 Oct 9.Kim EC1, Choi JS, Joo CK.Author information1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.AbstractPURPOSE: To compare the efficacy of vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) and cyclosporine A 0.05% eye drops in treating patients with dry eye disease.DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, controlled, parallel group study.METHODS: A total of 150 patients with defined dry eye disease participated (50 in each treatment group). In 3 identical clinical trials, patients were treated twice daily with cyclosporine A 0.05%, or four times daily with retinyl palmitate 0.05%, or with neither cyclosporine or retinyl palmitate. Adjunctive treatment with preservative-free artificial tears was undertaken four times daily in all 3 groups. Corneal fluorescein staining results, Schirmer tear test (without anesthesia) results, tear film break-up time (BUT), dry eye symptom score, and impression cytologic analysis results were obtained before treatment and at the first, second, and third months after initiation of treatment.
RESULTS: Both vitamin A eye drops and topical cyclosporine A 0.05% treatments led to significant improvement in blurred vision, tear film BUT, Schirmer I score results, and impression cytologic findings in patients with dry eye syndrome (P < .05) compared to the control group treated with preservative-free artificial tears alone.CONCLUSIONS: Both vitamin A eye drops and topical cyclosporine A 0.05% treatments are effective for the treatment of dry eye disorder.PMID: 18848318 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2008.08.015 [Indexed for MEDLINE] Publication typesComparative StudyRandomized Controlled TrialMeSH termsAdultCell CountConjunctiva/pathologyCyclosporine/administration & dosageCyclosporine/therapeutic use*Dry Eye Syndromes/diagnosisDry Eye Syndromes/drug therapy*FemaleFluorescein AngiographyGoblet Cells/pathologyHumansMaleOphthalmic Solutions/administration & dosageOphthalmic Solutions/therapeutic use*Prospective StudiesTreatment OutcomeVision Disorders/diagnosisVision Disorders/drug therapy*Vitamin A/administration & dosageVitamin A/analogs & derivatives*Vitamin A/therapeutic useSubstancesOphthalmic SolutionsVitamin Aretinol palmitateCyclosporineFull Text SourcesElsevier ScienceClinicalKeyMedicalVision Impairment and Blindness - MedlinePlus Health InformationVitamin A - MedlinePlus Health
InformationMiscellaneousVITAMIN A - Hazardous Substances Data BankCYCLOSPORIN A - Hazardous Substances Data BankArtificial tears are products designed to help people who suffer from dry eye syndrome (DES). They are generally available as over the counter medicine. There are so many, however, that it can feel quite overwhelming to choose the one that is best for you. In fact, many people end up trying quite a few brands and products before they find one that woks for them. The issue, however, is that this means they are self-medicating and self-diagnosing, which is never a good idea. It is important, therefore, that you have a comprehensive examination to identify whether there is an underlying medical reason for your DES, before you start trying lots of different products. There are three things you have to ask yourself when it comes to choosing your artificial tears: There has been quite a lot of debate over the safety and benefits of preservatives in artificial tears. There are pros and cons to both, as the table below highlights.
Overall, medical professionals and ophthalmologists agree that it is better to use preservative-free eye drops whenever possible. Below is a list of what we believe to be the 10 best ones. 1. NanoTears MXP Forte Instant relief of severe dry eye and Computer Vision Syndrome. Relieves burning, irritation and discomfort due to dryness of the eye or exposure to the wind and sun Nano Technology means less blurring and better adhesion Conveniently packaged in single use vials Save 30%, FREE SHIPPING – $19.95 Great for SEVERE dry eye NanoTears® is designed to address both aqueous dry eye disease and evaporative dry eye disease. NanoTears® uses patented nano-lipid technology to create a clear colloidal lipid solution. The nano-sized lipids (NanoPids®), in both polar and non-polar form, replicate the lipids produced by the Meibomian Gland. Consequently, NanoTears® works to restore and revitalize the lipid layer. The nano-phased lipid component in NanoTears™ helps lower tear osmolarity by repairing and restoring the surface lipid layer, reducing tear evaporation and allowing for proper aqueous buildup and dilution.
Instant, relief of moderate dry eye and Computer Vision Syndrome. Less blurring and better ahesion than other eye dropsSave $10 your total cost is just $18.95 Great for MILD + SEVERE dry eye Nano-technology dry eye drops are a unique innovation in Dry Eye treatment. Utilizing, nano-technology – tiny clear soothing lipids that revitalize the eyes natural lubrication by restoring the lipid layer of tear film and providing a barrier to tear loss without the blur associated with other drops. Instant relief for dry eye in seconds. Offers the ultimate in high performance dry eye therapy Delivers extended protection that lasts Your eyes feel comfortable longer, with fewer interruptions in your day-to-day life Helps your eyes feel lubricated and refreshed. 60 Sterile Vials 0.7 mL each $22.04 ($0.37 / Count) $23.20 Save $1.16 (5%) Systane Ultra are provided in preservative free vials. They are sterile and doctor recommended. They provide fast symptom relief and offer extended protection.
The product, created by Systane, includes breakthrough comfort technology. It is the latest in Dry Eye Syndrome treatment made available by Systane, and the product has been designed to protect the ocular surface. While being provided as a drop, it acts as a gel, providing enhanced lubrication for the eye. Restores Eyes Natural Balance Unique hypotonic and electrolyte balanced formula replicates healthy tears Preservative free in the eye 32 Vials, 0.65 Fl Oz (19.2ml) $26.12 ($0.41 / Count) TheraTears eye drops become preservative free once they come in contact with the eye. They are sterile and provide the eye with lubrication. It is a highly popular type of drop that uses a patented electrolyte balance. The product has been created after 18 years of research by ophthalmologist Jeffrey P. Gilbard, MD. It works best on people with mild to moderate DES. Every purchase of a TheraTears product supports the Schepens Eye Research Institute, which is committed to fighting painful eye conditions and blindness.
5. Refresh Optive Advanced Recommended For Lasik Dryness after Lasik surgery Long lasting & Preservative free Soothes and protects your eyes from dryness and irritation. 0.01 fl. oz (0.4mL) $33.88 ($16.94 / Item) Great for MILD dry eye This scientifically advanced lubricant eye drop provides Dry Eye symptom relief through an innovative, triple-action, preservative-free formula. It’s clinically proven to relieve your dry, burning, irritated eyes due to Dry Eye. REFRESH OPTIVE® Advanced Preservative-Free works on all three layers of your tear film to: 6. Soothe Lubricant Eye Drops Ideal for sensitive eyes and post-LASIK dry eye Gentle enough to be used as often as needed 28-Count Single Use Dispensers (Pack of 2) $21.19 ($529.75 / Fl Oz) Bausch + Lomb Soothe Preservative Free Lubricant Eye Drops are clinically proven to soothe dry and irritated eyes. This revolutionary advance in dry eye therapy provides soothing comfort and long lasting lubrication, keeping eyes feeling fresh throughout the day.
This unique formula restores the natural moisture balance in your eyes, providing effective, long lasting dry eye relief. And it is preservative-free so it’s gentle enough to use as often as needed. As the name suggests, these drops are particularly suitable for those who have mild to moderate DES. Created by pharmaceutical giant Novartis, the drops lubricate the eyes and provide advanced hydration for long lasting, fast relief. They are different due to the addition of genaqua in its formulation, which further protects the eyes. Because it is preservative free, it is safe for long term, frequent use. See Reviews on this Product: Genteal Eye Drops Bion Tears are fully sterile and preservative free. They are a tear substitute that has been created for people who have chronic, severe DES and who require drops that they can use many times during the day. The company suggests that people try the drops for three to four weeks. If, after that period of time, they do not find any relief, they can receive a full refund for their purchases.
Bion Tears are also produced by Walgreens, in Korea. See Reviews on this Product: Bion Tears Lubricant Eye Drops Boiron believes in making people feel good through better treatment. The company is family run and has existed since 1932, when they started providing homeopathic relief for various illnesses and conditions. They have set themselves apart as a global leader in homeopathic medicine. The Optique 1 eye drops have no known drug interactions, are soothing and refreshing, and can benefit eyes that are tired, burning, red, gritty, itchy, or dry. See Reviews on this Product: Boiron Optique 1 Eye Drops, Single Use Doses Similasan is another homeopathic, herbal remedy. Some people swear by it and have found a lot of relief from dryness and irritation. Others feel that herbal remedies only promote the placebo effect. On the other hand, even if it is really placebo effect, for those who suffer from dry eyes, the most important thing is to be able to find relief. Simalasan produces a number of targeted eye relief drops, including those for allergies, those for aging eyes, and those for children’s eyes.