Randomised assessor-masked trial evaluating topical manuka honey (Optimel) in treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the effects of manuka honey eye-drops in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction.

METHODS:

This is an assessor-masked (single-blind), randomised controlled trial comparing conventional treatment group with interventional group using Optimel 16% manuka honey topical eye-drops. 59 patients were recruited to the study and randomised into two groups: one given regular lubricants and the other given Optimel 16% manuka honey eye-drops. The Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) score was measured at baseline and on follow-up. 4 patients were lost to follow-up. Multiple ocular surface parameters were graded from slit lamp examination by a masked assessor. Results were compared from baseline to follow-up date 3 weeks later.

RESULTS:

Patients in the conventional treatment group demonstrated minimal difference in SPEED score at 3-week follow-up (mean difference 1.087, p=0.183), which was not statistically significant. However, measurements of tear film break-up time, corneal surface stain (Oxford), lid margin, conjunctival redness, as well as meibum quality and expressibility showed significant improvements at 3 weeks (p<0.01). Patients in the manuka honey eye-drops group showed significant difference after 3 weeks in SPEED score (mean difference 2.53, p=0.006), as well as in lid margin redness, conjunctival redness, corneal surface stain (Oxford), and meibum quality and expressibility (p=0.000).

CONCLUSIONS:

Optimel 16% manuka honey eye-drops showed significant improvement in symptoms and objective signs in meibomian gland dysfunction and are an effective alternative treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER:

NCT04457648.

• Authors: Anita Lai-Wah Li, Sophia Ling Li, Ka Wai Kam, Alvin Lerrmann Young
• Journal: The British journal of ophthalmology (Br J Ophthalmol) Vol. 106 Issue 6 Pg. 777-780 (06 2022) ISSN: 1468-2079 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 33419788 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)
• Copyright: © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2022. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.

Chemical References

• Ophthalmic Solutions

Topics

• Dry Eye Syndromes
• Eyelid Diseases
• Honey
• Humans
• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (diagnosis, drug therapy)
• Meibomian Glands
• Ophthalmic Solutions
• Prospective Studies
• Single-Blind Method
• Tears