Clinical evaluation of an HP-guar gellable lubricant eye drop for the relief of dryness of the eye.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of a new lubricant eye drop containing polyethylene glycol 400 and propylene glycol demulcents with hydroxypropyl-guar as a gelling agent (Test Product) to a system with carboxymethylcellulose (Control Product) for reducing dry eye signs and symptoms.

METHODS

Eighty-seven dry eye volunteers were enrolled at seven sites for this six-week, concurrently controlled, double-masked clinical study.

RESULTS

The Test Product significantly reduced conjunctival staining (p = 0.025) and temporal corneal staining (p = 0.024) compared to the Control. The Test Product also significantly reduced symptoms of dryness in the morning and evening, compared to the Control (p = 0.015 and p = 0.023, respectively). Subjects in the Test treatment group reported lower frequencies of foreign body sensation and felt their eyes were "refreshed longer" compared to those in the Control group (p = 0.033 and p = 0.037, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The Test Product was more effective at reducing both the signs and symptoms of dry eye compared to the carboxymethylcellulose containing Control.