Prescribed Medications for Dry Eye
Why You Might Need a Prescription
Many people try to manage dry eye with standard eye drops from the drugstore. While these can wash away dust and add temporary moisture, they do not treat the underlying disease. Chronic dry eye is often caused by inflammation (swelling) or problems with the oil glands in your eyelids.
Prescription medications do more than just wet the eye. They are designed to:
- Lower inflammation that stops your eyes from making healthy tears.
- Treat specific eyelid conditions, like mites or blocked oil glands.
- Help your body produce more of its own natural tears.
- Create a shield to stop tears from evaporating into the air.
At our Marlton clinic, we use a team-based approach to eye care. Whether you live in Evesham, Voorhees, or right here in Marlton, our specialists use advanced testing to find out exactly why your eyes are dry. This helps us choose the right medication for your specific needs.
Common Prescription Eye Drops
There are several types of prescription drops available today. Our doctors will select the best option based on your eye exam.
Inflammation is a major cause of dry eye. Medications like cyclosporine (Restasis, Cequa) and lifitegrast (Xiidra) help calm the immune system in your eyes. This reduces swelling and helps your tear glands work better. These drops are used twice a day and may take a few weeks to show full results.
Some people make enough water for their tears, but the tears dry up too quickly because they lack oil. Miebo is a newer, preservative-free drop that forms a clear shield over your eye. This stops evaporation and keeps your eyes moist for longer.
Sometimes, dry eye and red eyelids are caused by tiny microscopic mites called Demodex. These mites live on the eyelids and cause irritation. XDEMVY is a drop specifically designed to get rid of these mites, which lowers redness and makes your eyes feel better.
If your eyes are very red and painful, our ophthalmologists might prescribe a mild steroid drop for a short time. These drops work very fast to stop inflammation. They are often used to make you comfortable while other long-term medications start to work.
Treatments Beyond Eye Drops
We know that putting drops in your eyes can be difficult for some patients. We also offer innovative alternatives to fit your lifestyle.
Tyrvaya is a unique treatment that you spray into your nose, not your eyes. It stimulates the nerves in your nose to trigger your body's natural tear production. This is a great option if you struggle with applying eye drops.
For patients with severe dry eye that does not respond to standard medicine, we can offer autologous serum drops. These are custom-made eye drops created from your own blood. They contain natural healing factors that healthy tears have, which can heal the surface of the eye.
As a full-service clinic serving the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area, we have access to the latest technology. In addition to prescriptions, we may suggest procedures like intense pulsed light (IPL) or thermal pulsation to clear blocked oil glands and improve the effectiveness of your medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you may have questions about starting a new medication. Here are answers to common questions we hear from our patients.
It depends on the medication. Steroid drops can work in a few days. Anti-inflammatory drops like Restasis or Xiidra usually take 4 to 12 weeks to show their full benefit. It is important to keep using them as directed, even if you do not feel a change immediately.
Yes, you can usually use artificial tears along with your prescription. However, you should wait about 5 to 10 minutes between using your prescription drop and any other drop. This ensures the medicine does not get washed out of your eye.
Most side effects are mild. You might feel a little stinging or burning when you first put the drop in, or have a temporary bad taste in your mouth. These issues often go away after your eyes get used to the medicine. If you have severe redness or pain, call our office right away.
Coverage varies by plan. Our team is experienced in working with insurance providers to help you get the care you need. We can also discuss savings programs or alternative options if a specific medication is not covered.
Expert Dry Eye Care in South Jersey
You do not have to live with the discomfort of chronic dry eye. At ReFocus Eye Health Marlton, we combine the latest medical technology with compassionate care to help you see and feel your best. Whether you are coming from Mount Laurel, Camden County, or Philadelphia, our goal is to find the right treatment plan for you. If your eyes feel dry, gritty, or tired, schedule an appointment with our team today to discuss your prescription options.
Dr Glass is very thorough in my eye exam. He takes the time to explain in what he saw during my eye exam. Katie is a very good at her position. The staff at the front desk is friendly and very helpful.
Cynthia A. Rock
Dr.Glass is the best superb doctor I've seen in years. The entire staff was very friendly and helpful and all around excellent customer service from the entire office. I give the doctor and staff 5 Stars
Bengamite Israel
Dr. Grossman is the best. His personality is comforting, and his surgical skills are second to none. He takes the time to explain every procedure and eye exam result. I highly recommend Dr. Grossman!
Jim Stimeck
I saw Dr. Glass for my post cataract surgery appointment and he and is team are always pleasant and thorough.
Sandra Pruss
Always a good experience. Dr. Grossman takes time to explain everything. No question is a bother to him.
Dennis Guida
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