Despite conflicting results from previous studies, a new review of 152 publications concluded topical omega-3 is a promising treatment option for dry eye disease (DED) and other ocular surface inflammatory disease.

Led by Benjamin Paik from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, researchers said, in terms of tear film function parameters, across all DED subtypes (idiopathic, contact-lens- or corneal-crosslinking-associated), topical omega-3 improved corneal staining in the majority of human and animal studies assessed. Dryness symptoms and tear film break-up time (TBUT) were also improved, but no study showed a statistically significant benefit of topical omega-3 on Schirmer’s test, they said.

For more, see www.nzoptics.co.nz/articles/archive/omega-fatty-acids-for-ded/