Systane is an over-the-counter lubricating eye drop that is effective for use in the treatment of dry eye symptoms. It is available in several formulations to provide relief based on the severity of an individual's particular eye condition. Many ocular diseases can result in dry eyes; therefore, a thorough eye examination should be performed to determine the cause of eye problems.
Significance
Systane eye drops are used primarily for the treatment of dry eye disease. Dry eye is an ocular disorder that can result in a multitude of symptoms, such as eye irritation, blurred vision, tearing, eye infections and corneal scarring. The condition is caused by a dysfunctional tear layer that inadequately lubricates the front surface of the eye. When treating dry eye, it is important to determine any underlying causes, such as medication usage, systemic diseases and environmental factors. The first line of treatment for dry eye is the use of lubricating eye drops. Systane is one such eye drop that has been specifically developed to quell both the severity and duration of dry eye symptoms.
Function
Systane eye drops contain the ocular lubricants Polyethylene Glycol 400 0.4% and Propylene Glycol 0.3%. These maintain a longer contact time on the eye's surface compared to other lubricating drops, resulting in extended relief.
Systane was developed by Alcon Laboratories, which is a company that holds a significant worldwide market share in ophthalmic products and research. The common complaint associated with most lubricating eye drops is that they quickly drain into the lacrimal duct before improving ocular symptoms. Clinical and laboratory studies, such as the work being conducted at The Ohio State University College of Optometry, has resulted in a better understanding of the chemical and physical properties of the tear layer. Systane is effective because it is designed to mimic the natural tears and thereby provide a long-lasting protective layer of lubrication.
Considerations
The preservative used in systane is POLYQUAD (polyquaternium-1) 0.001%. Alcon has used POLYQUAD successfully as a preservative in other ophthalmic products including Opti-Free contact lens solution. Preservatives are necessary to maintain the effectiveness and safety profile of eye drops, but certain preservatives can actually induce eye irritation and worsen dry eye symptoms. Systane avoids this adverse result by using POLYQUAD and also by offering Systane Preservative-Free lubricating eye drops. The preservative-free eye drops are stored in a multipack of single use disposable vials. Since the vials are disposable there is no risk of contamination and likewise no need for a preservative.
Features
Moderate to severe forms of dry eye syndrome can require more extensive treatment including thicker gels and ointments for the eye. These gels work well in coating the ocular surface, but they can cause visual distortion and excessive adherence to the eyelids and eyelashes. Alcon offers Systane Nighttime Ointment to be used at bedtime for the relief of dry eye symptoms at night. Systane Ultra was released by Alcon in July of 2008. Systane Ultra was developed to provide the extra protection inherent in thicker ocular lubricants without inducing blurred vision during daily activities by utilizing and enhancing the functional properties of Systane.
Warning
Eye pain and irritation can be caused from several conditions other than dry eye syndrome. A comprehensive eye examination is necessary to determine the underlying cause of symptoms such as eye pain, redness or blurred vision. Only a licensed eye doctor can diagnose eye conditions and recommend the appropriate treatment plan. Undiagnosed eye diseases can worsen if not treated properly and could possibly lead to permanent vision problems. Severe forms of dry eye can often require more advanced therapies including prescription medications. Systane is an excellent choice compared to other over-the-counter dry eye products when used under the supervision of an eye care professional.
