Temporal changes in parameters associated with tear film stability after instillation of long-acting diquafosol ophthalmic solution in soft contact lens wearers.

PURPOSE

To investigate temporal changes in parameters associated with tear film stability after instillation of long-acting 3% diquafosol ophthalmic solution (DQS LX), which contains polyvinylpyrrolidone.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective crossover study design.

METHODS

We enrolled 23 eyes of 23 soft contact lens (SCL) wearers (aged 25.3 ± 4.4 years). One-day disposable silicone hydrogel lenses (narafilcon A) were used in this study. DQS LX was instilled without a SCL on the first day. On the other two days, subjects received DQS or DQS LX at 7 h after wearing SCLs. Tear meniscus height (TMH), non-invasive tear break-up time (NIBUT) and ocular surface temperature (OST) were measured before and at 5, 15, 30, 45, 60, 80 and 120 min after instillation.

RESULTS

When not wearing SCLs, DQS LX instillation significantly improved TMH for up to 120 min and NIBUT for up to 80 min. When wearing SCLs, DQS and DQS LX instillation significantly increased TMH for up to 45 and 80 min, and NIBUT for up to 15 and 30 min. Compared to DQS, DQS LX administration resulted in a significantly higher TMH at 5, 60 and 80 min, as well as a significantly prolonged NIBUT at 5 and 60 min. OST with and without SCLs also varied depending on the changes in the parameters associated with tear film stability.

CONCLUSION

Compared to DQS, when wearing SCLs, DQS LX was found to increase the amount of tear fluid and improve tear film stability for longer periods.