Published May 12, 2021 OTC Recommended Nutritional Supplements for Managing and Preventing Dry Eye By staff A recent publication on the website Healthline discussed the best nutritional supplements for managing, treating, and preventing dry eye. The article indicated that dry eye syndrome, which alters an individual’s ability to produce enough tears, affects an estimated 6.8% of adults in the United States. The author highlighted clinical information from studies regarding the use of vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and omega-3 supplements, as well as various other measures that affected individuals can employ to remedy dry eyes. In a small study published in 2019, patients who took oral vitamin A supplements for 3 days reported better tear quality. The researchers also remarked that vitamin A improves the smoothness of the tear film, and it also supports the formation of tears. The results suggest that a daily dose of 5,000 IU may improve dry eye symptoms. However, more research is required to ascertain the recommended dose and whether the benefits continue with long-term use. With regard to vitamin D, according to a study published in 2020, a deficiency in vitamin D can cause dry eye and the use of vitamin D supplements may aid in reducing inflammation on the eye’s surface. Additionally, results from a 2019 study revealed that vitamin D supplementation improves the effects of lubricating eye drops, another dry eye treatment. A 2018 study also established that oral vitamin D supplements improved tear quality and dry eye symptoms. The article also examined the use of vitamin B12 for dry eyes and indicated that vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with severe dry eye disease and eye pain. In a 2020 study, the combination of oral vitamin B12 supplements and artificial tears improved symptoms of dry eye syndrome. According to the researchers, vitamin B12 may repair the corneal nerve layer, or the nerves on the eye’s outer surface, which may assist in decreasing the burning sensation often associated with dry eye. Studies have also found that the use of omega-3 supplements improved dry eye symptoms in patients with rosacea. One study noted that omega-3 supplements eased dry eye symptoms in individuals with computer vision syndrome. A 2019 review revealed that omega-3 fats may work by diminishing inflammation and relieve symptoms such as irritation and pain. The article also listed recommendations that consumers can follow in addition to nutritional supplements, including using artificial tears, employing a humidifier, avoiding smoke, taking breaks from digital devices, applying warm compresses, and massaging the eyelids to reduce the symptoms associated with dry eye. Individuals experiencing severe symptoms such as sudden changes in vision, worsening eye pain, and severe eye redness should be directed to seek medical care and discuss the use of other treatments with their primary healthcare providers. Pharmacists can be instrumental in identifying medical conditions and pharmacologic agents that may contribute to or exacerbate dry eye and also ensure that their patients take only the recommended daily dosage of these supplements to prevent toxicity.The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.« Click here to return to OTC Update.