New distributor for Optimel’s manuka eye drops

The Australian-made high-activity Manuka+ (16.5% honey in a saline solution) eye drop helps restore eye comfort and reduces inflammation by reducing bacteria that may potentially colonise the eyelid margin causing inflammation, poor tear quality and trauma to the eye surface, said Moloney. A study published by the British Journal of Ophthalmology found Optimel formulated eye drops with Leptospermum (mānuka myrtle) honey were effective in reducing tear film evaporation rate and more effective for improving symptoms of dry eye compared with conventional lubricant eye drops after 28 days of treatment.

While the Optimel drop contains benzoic acid preservative, the optometry-only Optimel Manuka+ Forte Eye Gel, contains 98% Manuka honey and is preservative free. Its high viscosity also makes it well suited for night-time use on the eyelid margins, said Moloney. “This product is ideal for moderate to severe dry eye disease, particularly meibomian gland disease and blepharitis.” Melcare’s third product in the range is the Optimel Manuka+ Eyelid Cream, which is indicated for skincare post-IPL and for helping manage seborrheic dermatitis, a condition associated with up to 46% of patients with MGD, said Moloney.