Meibomian gland dysfunction – MGD is an eye disorder with inadequate oil secretion. It can cause ocular surface disease, eyelid discomfort, dry eye, and alter the tear film. Patients have to get diagnosed early for effective treatment. This study assesses the effectiveness of Manuka honey eye drops in treating MGD.
A controlled, single-blind, randomized trial was conducted using 59 patients. The conventional group was compared with an interventional group. The latter took 16% Optimel Manuka honey eye-drops while the former got regular lubricants. The baseline SPEED score was measured and compared with 3-week later follow-up date score, with a loss of 4 patients who did not turn up. Masked assessors used slit lamp examination to grade the multiple ocular surface parameters.
The conventional group had minimal SPEED score difference at 3-week follow-up with a mean difference of 1.087 and P-value of 0.183. The Oxford corneal surface stain, lid margin, tear film break-up time, meibum quality and expressibility, and conjunctival redness had significant 3- week improvements. The Manuka group had a significant mean difference of 2.53 after three weeks in SPEED score. The conjunctival redness, Oxford corneal surface stain, lid margin redness, meibum quality, and expressibility differences were also significant.
The Optimel 16% of Manuka honey eye-drops are effective in treating patients with MGD. They significantly improved objective signs and symptoms.
Ref: https://bjo.bmj.com/content/early/2021/01/08/bjophthalmol-2020-317506
