Boston-Ophthalmic solutions of azelastine HCl (Optivar, Asta Medica/Muro Pharmaceutical Inc., Tewksbury, MA) and olopatadine HCl (Patanol, Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, TX) both effectively inhibit the activation of normal cultured human mast cells and the release of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tryptase, and histamine. However, azelastine seemed to be substantially more potent for treating ocular allergy when the two drugs were compared in an in vitro study.
Frantz EyeCare reports 98% of Light Adjustable Lens patients achieved refractive accuracy within ±0.50 D of target, exceeding published national cataract surgery benchmarks.
In this Q&A, Ping Moore, OD, covers emerging dry eye therapies, from selenium sulfide to next-gen cyclosporine, and how subtype-guided care shapes treatment choices.
Findings from the third annual State of Dry Eye survey link symptom management to quality of life gains, including lower anxiety and improved self-confidence.