Effectiveness of a Preservative-Free Eye Drop, Cyclosporine 0.05% Emulsion, and Omega-3 Supplementation as a Fixed Combination in Dry Eye Disease – a Pilot Study

Purpose: We aim to evaluate the impact of combining a preservative-free drop, cyclosporine 0.05% emulsion, and omega-3 oral supplementation on the signs and symptoms of dry eye in a typical ophthalmic practice.Design: A retrospective case series conducted on patients with dry eye disease.Methods: Patients diagnosed with dry eye in a typical ophthalmology practice were initiated on a fixed combination regimen which included a preservative-free eye drop (I-DROP ® PUR GEL, I-MED pharma), cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion, and oral omega-3 supplement(Dry Eye Omega Benefits®, PRN)for 3 monthsconsecutively. The primary outcome measured was a symptom score using the Canadian Dry Eye Assessment Tool (CDEA). Secondary outcome measure was Non-invasive Keratograph Break-up Time (NIKBUT). Primary and secondary outcomes measured at baseline and 3 months following intervention were compared.Results: Thirty-six patients were included with a female male ratio of 2.6:1 and average age of 64.Patient symptoms improved significantly following the intervention as demonstrated by a lower CDEA score during the second visit compared to the first visit (16.11 vs. 19.50, respectively) (p< .05). NIKBUT scores were also significantly improved as demonstrated by a higher score during the second visit compared to the first in both the right (13.18 vs. 11.44) (p< .05) and left (14.62 vs. 12.78) (p< .01) eyes, respectively.Conclusion: A fixed combination of preservative-free eye drops, cyclosporine 0.05% and omega-3 supplementation may be an effective first line treatment option in alleviating symptoms and improving signs of patients suffering from dry eye.