Topical Anti-Inflammatory Therapy for Dry Eye

Thirty individuals were prescribed a topical anti-inflammatory therapy, either cyclosporine 0.05% (Restasis, Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA, USA) or lifitegrast 5% (Xiidra, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., East Hanover, NJ, USA) as part of the clinical care. Overall, this group had higher DED symptom severity (DEQ5: 13.97 ± 4.17 vs. 10.94 ± 5.20, p = 0.002) and lower tear production (Schirmer: 10.28 ± 7.16 vs. 13.28 ± 7.33, p = 0.04) compared to individuals not treated with an anti-inflammatory drop. However, the decision to treat was based on the preference of the treating physician. In all patients, a topical corticosteroid was prescribed twice daily for the first month (fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension, 0.1%). The DED symptom response was subjectively assessed approximately 3 months later. Individuals were sorted into two groups: individuals who characterized their ocular surface symptoms as partially or completely resolved upon starting anti-inflammatory therapy, and those with stable or worsening symptoms.