Saudi J Ophthalmol, 2014, Volume 28; Issue 3; Pages 195 - 197

Essential fatty acids in the treatment of dry eye syndrome: A myth or reality?

Al Mahmood, A.M. Al-Swailem, S.A.

Key Findings

A review of the role of n3 in reducing dry eye which is speculated to be an inflammatory disease is provided. ALA is known to provide anti-inflammatory activity through the generation of the eicosanoids prostaglandin E3 and leukotriene B5, and the reduction in AA (arachidonic acid) synthesis to pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4. N3 fats reduce conjunctival inflammatory markers. ALA is associated with a significant decrease in other markers of inflammation, CD11b cell number, corneal Interleukin1α and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and conjunctival TNF.

ABSTRACT

Dry eye is a common condition that can severely impair the quality of life. Systemic and topical omega 3 fatty acids and omega 6 fatty acids have been used as treatment for patients with dry eye disease and showed promising results. Further multicenter randomized controlled trials are required in order to establish a standardized protocol for the treatment of dry eye syndrome with those essential fatty acids. (Authors Abstract)
 

This is a free article, click below to view:

Link to Full Text

Full Text