From the Guidelines
For relieving itchy and burning eyes, antihistamine eye drops like olopatadine (Pataday) are generally most effective, especially for allergy-related symptoms, as they provide quick relief and can work for up to 12 hours with minimal side effects 1. These over-the-counter options are suitable for mild-to-moderate cases and can be used in addition to ocular lubricants if necessary. Some key points to consider when using antihistamine eye drops include:
- Following package directions carefully, typically 1-2 drops in each affected eye twice daily
- Assessing treatment response at 1 month and seeking routine ophthalmology referral if there is a lack of response to treatment
- Being aware that antihistamine eyedrops are unlikely to be beneficial for children aged < 7 years with dupilumab-related ocular surface disorders (DROSD) and that this should not delay referral to ophthalmology 1 For temporary relief of dryness that causes irritation, artificial tears like preservative-free hyaluronates drops can help restore moisture and reduce burning sensations, with formulations with higher hyaluronate percentage considered to offer greater therapeutic efficacy 1. If symptoms are severe or persistent, prescription-strength options like Lastacaft (alcaftadine) or Pazeo (olopatadine 0.7%) may be more appropriate, and it is essential to consult an eye care professional if symptoms persist beyond a week, or if you experience vision changes, pain, or discharge, as these could indicate a more serious condition requiring different treatment.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use Temporarily relieves itchy eyes due to pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair and dander. The best eye drops for relieving itching and burning eyes are ketotifen (OPHTH), which can provide up to 12 hours of eye itch relief 2.
- Key benefits: Works in minutes, original prescription strength, and suitable for ages 3 years and older.
- Important usage instructions: Put 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, every 8-12 hours, no more than twice per day 2.
From the Research
Eye Drops for Itching and Burning
- Itching and burning eyes can be caused by various factors, including ocular allergies and dry eye syndrome.
- Studies have compared the efficacy of different eye drops in relieving these symptoms, including olopatadine and ketotifen 3, 4.
- Olopatadine has been shown to be more effective in reducing symptoms of allergy, such as itching and burning, compared to ketotifen 3.
- Ketotifen and olopatadine have both been found to be effective in reducing the expression of cell adhesion molecules and inflammatory markers in conjunctival surface cells 4.
Artificial Tears for Dry Eye Syndrome
- Artificial tears are commonly used to treat dry eye syndrome, but their effectiveness can vary depending on their composition 5, 6.
- Some studies have found that certain artificial tears, such as those containing 0.2% polyacrylic acid, may be more effective in relieving dry eye symptoms than others 5.
- The choice of artificial tear should be based on the individual's specific needs and the underlying cause of their dry eye syndrome 6, 7.
- Ingredients such as viscosity-enhancing agents, electrolytes, and antioxidants can play a crucial role in the management of dry eye disease 7.