Medications
There are several medications available to help treat dry eye syndrome, depending on the severity and underlying causes of the condition.
Medication options include over-the-counter products, prescription steroid drops, prescription antibiotic drops or oral medication, and autologous serum drops.
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Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops that help moisten the eyes.
Types: Preservative-free formulations are always recommended. You may consider gel drops for nighttime use.
Brands: Recommended options include Refresh, Systane, and iVizia, Retaine.
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Cyclosporine A (Restasis, Cequa, Vevye)
Lifitegrast (Xiidra)
Perfluorohexyloctane (Miebo)
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Short-term use of steroid drops can reduce inflammation and provide relief from severe dry eye symptoms.
Long-term use is generally avoided due to potential side effects like increased intraocular pressure.