A recent study from Bausch + Lomb found its novel daily nutritional supplement designed to alleviate the effects of dry eye disease (DED) met both its primary endpoints for tear production and symptom reports. 

Featuring a proprietary blend of ingredients including lutein, zeaxanthin isomers, curcumin and vitamin D3, Blink NutriTears is formulated to address the symptoms of dry eyes, said Dr Yehia Hashad, chief medical officer, Bausch + Lomb. “This could represent a significant opportunity for consumers looking for options when it comes to long-lasting dry eye symptom relief. We believe Blink NutriTears will offer a novel nutritional option that can provide dry eye symptom relief in as little as two to four weeks.” 

The placebo-controlled study evaluated the efficacy and safety of NutriTears in 155 adult participants aged 18-65 with mild DED symptoms. Participants were randomised to receive one NutriTears or placebo capsule per day for 56 days (eight weeks). 

The study found those taking the supplement had significant improvements in tear production, as measured by change in Schirmer test scores from baseline, compared to placebo, at day 56. By day 14, total Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores, as well as symptoms and vision domains of the OSDI significantly improved from baseline for participants taking NutriTears versus placebo, and were maintained to day 56. The study also found those taking the supplement had significant improvements in ocular surface staining, participant-reported symptoms and a reduction in presence of inflammatory marker MMP-9.  

While participants were allowed to use artificial tears throughout the study, there was no reported significant difference in their use between the two cohorts.  

Bausch + Lomb said it expects to launch Blink NutriTears in the US early in the third quarter of 2024.  

The study was published in Frontiers in Ophthalmology.