Dry eye disrupts the eye’s tear production system, affecting the moisture of the eye’s surface. A nasal spray can help improve tear production and treat symptoms of the condition.
Dry eye is a common condition affecting
Treating dry eye with medications typically involves the use of eye drops. However, a nasal spray option has recently become available. Read on to learn more about how nasal sprays work to treat dry eye and considerations for their use.
Multiple clinical trials have investigated nasal spray treatment for dry eye. These studies have included adults with dry eye who are at least 22 years of age.
In the
Similar results were observed in the phase 3 ONSET-2 clinical trial, which included a larger group of participants (758 people) compared to the ONSET-1 trial (182 people).
The
A
The only medication currently approved for use as a nasal spray to treat dry eye is varenicline solution (Tyrvaya).
The dosage for Tyrvaya is 1 spray in each nostril twice daily.
Researchers have also studied another medication — simpinicline solution — as a potential nasal spray treatment for dry eye. Simpinicline works similarly to varenicline to promote tear production via stimulation of sensory nerves in the nose. In a
However, nasal spray simpinicline solution is not currently approved to treat dry eye.
Tyrvaya nasal spray aims to work quickly.
The ONSET-1 clinical trial involved exposing participants to harsh conditions that can trigger dry eye symptoms, such as dry air, high winds, and harsh lighting. In these environments, increased tear production occurred
Researchers noted consistent improvement in dry eye symptoms after 4 weeks of continuous, daily use.
Clinical trials note sneezing as the
- coughing
- throat irritation
- nasal irritation
Most side effects linked with Tyrvaya nasal spray are mild and typically improve on their own. In clinical trials, most people did not have to stop treatment with Tyrvaya due to side effects.
In very rare cases, some vision changes can occur with Tyrvaya nasal spray.
Tyrvaya nasal spray can help increase tear production and reduce symptoms in people with dry eye. This medication begins working quickly and can provide sustained improvements in dry eye symptoms with regular use. Side effects of Tyrvaya are usually mild and typically resolve on their own.
Adults with dry eye who wish to try Tyrvaya can talk with an ophthalmologist to learn more about nasal spray treatment to help manage dry eye symptoms.