From the Guidelines
Testosterone cream is not a recommended treatment for dry eye syndrome (DES) due to lack of evidence and potential harm if it enters the eye. The primary treatments for dry eyes include artificial tears, prescription eye drops like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra), punctal plugs, and lifestyle modifications such as using a humidifier and taking breaks from screen time 1. While hormonal imbalances can contribute to dry eye syndrome, particularly in postmenopausal women due to decreased estrogen and testosterone levels, there is no evidence to support the use of topical testosterone cream for this condition.
Some key points to consider in the treatment of dry eye syndrome include:
- The use of anti-inflammatory therapies, such as cyclosporine, to reduce ocular inflammation and improve tear production 1
- The use of punctal plugs to block the drainage of tears and increase the amount of tears on the surface of the eye 1
- The use of lifestyle modifications, such as using a humidifier and taking breaks from screen time, to reduce symptoms of dry eye syndrome
- The importance of consulting with an eye care professional to determine the underlying cause of dry eye symptoms and to recommend appropriate treatments.
It is essential to note that the evidence provided does not support the use of testosterone cream for dry eye syndrome, and its use could potentially cause harm if it enters the eye. Therefore, it is not recommended to use testosterone cream as a treatment for dry eye syndrome. Instead, patients should consult with an eye care professional to determine the best course of treatment for their specific condition.
From the Research
Effectiveness of Testosterone Cream for Dry Eye Syndrome
- There is limited research directly addressing the effectiveness of testosterone cream for treating dry eye syndrome (DES) 2.
- However, a systematic review of clinical studies on androgen replacement therapy (ART) for dry eye disease (DED) suggests that androgen can improve dry eye-related symptoms and increase tear secretion, particularly in individuals with primary androgen deficiency 2.
- The review included studies where androgen was applied topically via eye drops or systemically via oral or transdermal administration, but did not specifically mention testosterone cream 2.
- Other treatments for dry eye syndrome, such as punctal occlusion, intense pulsed light therapy, and topical corticosteroids, have shown promise in improving symptoms and tear film quality, but their effectiveness compared to testosterone cream is unclear 3, 4, 5.
- Over-the-counter artificial tear drops are commonly used to treat dry eye syndrome, but their effectiveness compared to testosterone cream is also unclear 6.
Safety and Efficacy Considerations
- The safety and efficacy of testosterone cream for treating dry eye syndrome are not well established, and more research is needed to determine its potential benefits and risks 2.
- Androgen replacement therapy, in general, has been associated with mild skin problems as adverse effects, but the specific safety profile of testosterone cream for dry eye syndrome is unknown 2.
- Other treatments for dry eye syndrome, such as topical corticosteroids, may have adverse effects like intraocular pressure elevation and cataract formation, but the risk-benefit profile of testosterone cream is not well understood 5.