Categorization of Marketed Artificial Tear Formulations Based on Their Ingredients: A Rational Approach for Their Use.

Avani Kathuria,Vishal Jhanji,Ajay Sharma,Kiumars Shamloo

doi:10.3390/jcm10061289

Avani Kathuria, Vishal Jhanji + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10061289

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Abstract

Dry eye disease is a common ocular condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Artificial tears are the first line therapy for the management of dry eye disease. Artificial tear formulations contain a variety of active ingredients, biologically active excipients, and preservatives. Many of these formulations are also available as preservative-free. This study was conducted to inspect artificial tear formulations currently marketed in the United States for their active ingredients, biologically relevant excipients, and preservatives. The marketed artificial tears were examined at various US retail pharmacy chains and using the manufacturers’ website to compile information about active ingredients, inactive ingredients, and preservatives. The currently marketed artificial tears can be grouped into four categories based on their active ingredients. The artificial tears also contain biologically active chemicals listed as inactive ingredients, which have osmoprotectant, humectant, and tear film lipid layer or mucous layer mimicking properties. Most artificial tears contain vanishing type preservatives such as purite or sodium perborate and safer quaternary compound polyquaternium-1. The majority of these artificial tear formulations are also available as preservative-free single dose unit. The study provides a formulary of artificial tears based on active ingredients, biologically active excipients, and the preservative-free option. The formulary should assist healthcare providers in making a stepwise and rational selection of appropriate artificial tears for patients suffering from dry eye disease.

Highlights

Dry eye disease is a common ocular condition affecting millions of people all over the world
Surface Society (TFOS) definition, dry eye is a multifactorial disease characterized by loss of tear film homeostasis, tear hyperosmolarity, ocular surface inflammation, and neurosensory abnormalities [2]
The artificial tear preparations were tabulated based on the major active ingredient and the biologically active excipients listed under inactive ingredients

Summary

Introduction

Dry eye disease is a common ocular condition affecting millions of people all over the world. According to National Health and Wellness Survey, an estimated 16.4 million people in the United States suffer from dry eye disease [1]. Surface Society (TFOS) definition, dry eye is a multifactorial disease characterized by loss of tear film homeostasis, tear hyperosmolarity, ocular surface inflammation, and neurosensory abnormalities [2]. The disease can result in visual disturbance and tear film instability with potential damage to the ocular surface [3]. The symptoms may improve or worsen over the natural course of the disease, dry eye disease is considered a lifelong condition [4]. Pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions significantly improve the symptoms, long-term adherence to these approaches is necessary for the effective management of dry eye disease

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