This article was originally published in a sponsored newsletter.
 
When we think about options for our dry eye patients, it often seems like we need a decoder to make sense of all the potential algorithms to try. We often start with some sort of eye drop, whether it’s over-the-counter or prescription, but what we really need are more simple, efficacious solutions.

Depending on the cause of the dry eye, only 5% to 7% of ODs use a nutraceutical as first-line treatment, or treatment in general.¹ This may be due to the perception of side effects with fish oil, perception of lack of efficacy, difficultly with dosing or unawareness of oral supplementation for dry eyes. There is also the issue of complex formulations, usually including some sort of Omega-3 or other oil, which can lead to confusion for prescribers, patients or both.

A recently published paper² showed that we can improve many of the metrics we follow in dry eye with a once-a-day, single-pill supplement that has only four ingredients: lutein, zeaxanthin isomers, curcumin and vitamin D3. In other words, we have a solution to simplistically and efficaciously improve both the signs and symptoms of dry eye.

This study looked at several subjective and objective measures of dry eyes and found that the supplement was statistically significantly beneficial in most of them.² Both primary outcome measures of improvement in Schirmer’s and OSDI scores (standard for dry eye studies) were met.² Other improved metrics were tear break-up time, tear osmolarity, corneal staining, conjunctival staining, inflammation and SPEED scores.²

Another benefit is that three of the four components in this formulation are household names among supplement users and prescribers. We already talk to our patients about lutein and zeaxanthin routinely for macular degeneration, and we are all aware of the benefits of vitamin D. Although curcumin is not yet popular in the U.S., it is widely recognized as a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Both the single pill and the formulation offer a simple solution that covers a lot of ground.

Finally, there is the importance of sourcing and compliance. Ideally, we can get patients the supplements they need in ways that are convenient and easy for them: out of our offices, in stores or online. Offering nutraceuticals out of our offices, in particular, not only ensures that patients get the right product, but also allows us to control pricing and make the products we recommend as affordable as possible for patients.

 The bottom line is that when we have products that are both efficacious and simplistic, we need to pay attention to them. The key to patient success isn’t just the right product, but also one that people will adhere to, that will yield the best results.

References: 

1. Geller M, Fahmy A, Dierker D, Gold E. The 2023 dry eye report. Eyes on Eyecare. February 27, 2023. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://eyesoneyecare.com/resources/how-to-diagnose-ocular-rosacea/?utm_medium=eoe:infinite-scroll
2. Gioia N, Gerson J, Ryan R, et al. A novel multi-ingredient supplement significantly improves ocular symptom severity and tear production in patients with dry eye disease: results from a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Front Ophthalmol (Lausanne). 2024 Apr:4:1362113. doi:10.3389/fopht.2024.1362113