From the Guidelines
For red, dry eyes, the most effective alternative to Lumify is cyclosporine (Restasis), which reduces inflammation and increases tear production when used twice daily, as evidenced by a study published in 2024 1. This treatment option is preferred due to its ability to address the underlying causes of dry eye, rather than just masking the symptoms. Other alternatives include:
- Over-the-counter artificial tears like Systane, Refresh, or TheraTears, which can be used 4-6 times daily to lubricate the eye surface, with preservative-free versions being better for frequent use.
- Lifitegrast (Xiidra), which also reduces inflammation and increases tear production when used twice daily, as approved by the FDA in 2016 1.
- Antihistamine eye drops such as ketotifen (Zaditor) or olopatadine (Pataday) can help if allergies are causing redness, used once or twice daily as directed.
- Warm compresses applied to closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes daily can help unclog oil glands.
- Omega-3 supplements (1000-2000mg daily) may improve tear quality over time. Lifestyle changes like using a humidifier, taking screen breaks, and staying hydrated can also help manage symptoms. It's essential to note that these treatments may have varying degrees of effectiveness and potential side effects, and it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for individual cases of red, dry eyes. In severe cases, other treatments like permanent punctal occlusion, autologous serum or plasma rich in growth factors drops, and rigid gas-permeable scleral lenses may be considered, as outlined in the 2024 study 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use Temporarily relieves itchy eyes due to pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair and dander. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Alternative Options for Red Dry Eye
Other than Lumify, there are several alternative options for treating red dry eye, including:
- Preservative-free artificial tears containing hyaluronate, such as Hyabak® 2
- Artificial tear treatments like Clinitas Soothe, Tears Again, and TheraTears, which have been shown to improve symptoms and conjunctival signs in dry eye patients 3
- Lipid-based artificial tear supplements, which can help improve tear film and ocular surface characteristics in patients with dry eye disease 4
- Non-lipid-based aqueous drops, which can also provide sustained reductions in symptom scores and improvements in tear film and ocular surface characteristics 4
Key Considerations
When selecting an alternative option for red dry eye, consider the following:
- The specific ingredients and their effects on the ocular surface, such as viscosity-enhancing agents, electrolytes, osmo-protectants, antioxidants, lipids, surfactants, and preservatives 5
- The predominant etiological causes of dry eye disease, such as aqueous deficient or evaporative dry eye 4
- The need for individualized, dynamic, and optimized treatment approaches, taking into account the stage of the disease and the patient's specific needs 6