Effect of a liposomal spray on the pre-ocular tear film
published online 22 January 2010.
Abstract
Purpose
With the potential to address evaporative dry eye, a novel spray has been developed in which phospholipid liposomes are delivered to the tear film via the surface of the closed eyelid. This study evaluated the short-term effects of liposomal spray application on the lipid and stability characteristics of the pre-ocular tear film in normal eyes.
Methods
Twenty-two subjects (12M, 10F) aged 35.1±7.1 years participated in this prospective, randomised, double-masked investigation in which the liposomal spray was applied to one eye, and an equal volume of saline spray (control) applied to the contralateral eye. Lipid layer grade (LLG), non-invasive tear film stability (NIBUT) and tear meniscus height (TMH) were evaluated at baseline, and at 30, 60, 90 and 135min post-application. Subjective reports of comfort were also compared.
Results
Treated and control eyes were not significantly different at baseline (p>0.05). Post-application, LLG increased significantly, at 30 and 60min, only in the treated eyes (p=0.005). NIBUT also increased significantly in the treated eyes only (p<0.001), at 30, 60 and 90min. TMH did not alter significantly (p>0.05). Comfort improved relative to baseline in 46% of treated and 18% of control eyes, at 30min post-application. Of those expressing a preference in comfort between the eyes, 68% preferred the liposomal spray.
Conclusions
Consistent with subjective reports of improved comfort, statistically and clinically significant improvements in lipid layer thickness and tear film stability are observed in normal eyes for ≥1h after a single application of a phospholipid liposomal spray.
aDepartment of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland, New Zealand
bSchool of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, UK
cOphthalmic Research Group, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
Corresponding author at: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand. Tel.: +64 9 923 8173; fax: +64 9 367 7173.
ABSTRACT