A New Treatment for Dry Eye That’s Drop Free and Drug Free
TrueTear®
Dry eye is a condition that affects millions of people every year in the United States. Treatments range from over the counter products such as artificial tears, omega-3 fatty acids supplements, and warm compresses to procedures such as amniotic membrane application for severe cases. A common theme of most of these treatments is that the patient must apply a foreign substance to the eye or ocular region.
TrueTear is a new treatment for dry eye that is designed to improve this problem. It takes advantage of neurostimulation so that the patient can produce their own tears to keep their eyes lubricated. The same nerves that innervate (stimulate) the surface of the eye also innervate the inside of the nose. As a result, gentle pulses of energy to the nasal mucosa allow for an immediate and potentially longer lasting production of natural tears. The device is made up of a battery powered unit as well as a soft disposable applicator. The applicator is placed inside the nose and the energy is applied via a simple button. The sensation is described as pulsing and the intensity can be increased or decreased for comfort or tear production. Each applicator remains effective for 2 days and then must be disposed of.
The duration of the effect varies depending on the patient and the severity of their dry eye. This product is relatively easy to use and may eliminate the need to use drops altogether. This is great for people who have difficulty applying drops or who do not want to take their contact lenses out. ESA will begin carrying this device spring of 2019. Please consult with your doctor for important safety information on warnings and contraindications. For the full Directions for Use, please visit www.allergan.com/truetear/usa.htm.
BIO: Dr. Carlton Fenzl, with Eye Surgeons Associates, is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and received subspecialty credentials in diseases and surgery of the cornea. He practices at ESA’s Rock Island and Geneseo, IL offices.
The material contained in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.
