Carboxymethyl Cellulose versus Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Tear Substitutes for Dry Eye Due to Computer Vision Syndrome: Comparison of Efficacy and Safety.

Abstract

Background:Prolonged use of visual display terminal images on electronic devices such as computers frequently leads to symptoms of dry eye. Tear substitutes form the mainstay of treatment for mild-to-moderate dry eye.Aim:The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) versus hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) tear substitutes for dry eye due to computer vision syndrome (CVS).Materials and Methods:This was a prospective, randomized, comparative, and open-labeled study. The efficacy of CMC 0.5% and HPMC 0.3% tear substitutes was compared in 180 participants (90 in each group) with dry eye. Change in Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score, Schirmer I test score, and tear film break up time (TF-BUT) were used as efficacy parameters. Safety was monitored on all visits.Results:The baseline OSDI score? 23.48 and 23.32 in Group A and B, respectively, decreased with treatment in both groups on all follow-up visits as compared to the baseline (day 90: 13.9 ± 3 vs. 14.81 ± 3.17, P: 0.01). The scores of Schirmer I test increased in both groups, with a greater improvement in Group A (at day 90: 22.75 ± 3.04 mm vs. 21.78 ± 3.36 mm, P: 0.04). The values of TF-BUT improved in both groups, the difference being statistically insignificant. An initial stinging was reported by one participant, each in both groups.Conclusion:CMC and HPMC tear substitutes were equally efficacious and safe in reducing symptoms of dry eye due to CVS.