The Effect of Manuka Eye Drops on Tear Film Properties

The aim of the present study is to conduct a randomised clinical trial to compare the effect on tear film properties and dry eye signs and symptoms of Optimel Manuka eye drops compared to Systane Ultra, a widely available over the counter aqueous tear supplement as a control eye drop. This investigation will involve a minimum of 40 participants who have dry eye, who are randomly put into two groups receiving either Optimel Manuka drops or Systane Ultra used three times daily for one month. Both of these products are commercially available in Australia. Results from this study will inform practitioners as to the potential benefits of Manuka eye drops on tear film characteristics and signs and symptoms of dry eye.

Inclusion criteria

• Able to read and comprehend English and give informed consent as demonstrated by signing a record of informed consent;
• General population aged 18 years and over;
• In good general health;
• Subjectively experiencing dry eye symptoms (e.g. burning, irritation, and discomfort due to dryness of the eye or exposure to wind or sun). Participants will be selected based on a minimum OSDI score of 13 points (1).
• Willing to discontinue CL wear for 1 week before first visit and continue to do so until the conclusion of the study;
• Participant is willing to discontinue their use of any previous conventional dry eye treatment method commenced before the study throughout the study;
• Willing to comply with the dosage and study visit schedule as directed by the investigator;
• No planned changes to diet and willing not to substantially alter their usual diet for the duration of the study, including their typical intake of fish, green tea or oral supplements known to have anti-inflammatory properties;
• Willingness to notify the study investigator if instructed to alter their diet by health/medical practitioner.

Exclusion criteria

• Allergy to benzoic acid preservatives;
• Allergy to honey products;
• Active anterior eye disease/ infection, inflammation/allergy that requires ocular medical treatment;
• Eye injury or surgery in the past 6 months including chemical burns, penetrating injuries, traumatic iritis, orbital fractures, laser surgery, strabismus surgery, cataract or any other intraocular surgeries;
• Soft contact lens, rigid gas permeable, orthokeratology lens wearer within one week prior to the study and during the study.
• Use of any of the following medications (including steroids) up to 12 weeks prior to start of the study or during the course of the study:

• Ocular medication, category S3 and above;
• Any systemic or topical medications that will affect ocular physiology e.g. anti-acne medications such as Roaccutane and corticosteroid or immunosuppressant medications such as Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone and antihistamine medications such as Claritine;
• Any systemic disease that may affect ocular health e.g. Graves disease, and auto-immune diseases such as ankolysing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosis;
• Epilepsy or history of migraines exacerbated by flashing, strobe-like lights.