eye Drops Offer Potential Non-Surgical Solution for Age-Related Blurry Near Vision
A new eye drop treatment combining pilocarpine, a medication to enhance near focus, with diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory, is showing promising results in addressing presbyopia – the age-related loss of ability to focus on close objects. Presented at the 43rd Congress of the European Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ESCRS), the treatment offers a potential choice to reading glasses or surgery for those affected.
The study involved 766 participants with an average age of 55, who used the drops twice daily, with the option of a third submission if needed. Researchers utilized three different concentrations of pilocarpine (1%, 2%, and 3%) to tailor the treatment’s affect to the individual severity of their presbyopia.
Results indicated a significant enhancement in near vision for the majority of participants within one hour of management. Participants were able to read, on average, up to three additional lines on the Jaeger scale, a standard measure of visual acuity. Notably, this improvement was sustained for up to two years in the study participants.
This advancement is particularly relevant for individuals for whom surgery isn’t an option, whether due to medical reasons or personal preference. according to Dr. Benozzi,the lead researcher,the goal was to “provide a pharmacological option based on solid clinical data to improve the quality of life of presbyopes.” The study suggests even low concentrations of pilocarpine can offer rapid and lasting improvements, making the drops especially beneficial for those with mild to moderate presbyopia.
While the treatment demonstrates potential,it’s importent to acknowledge reported side effects. Patients experienced temporary blurred vision, flashes of light, eye irritation, and headaches. Tho, no participants discontinued the treatment due to these effects, and they were generally limited and reversible.
Researchers caution that the study was retrospective and conducted at a single center, meaning further investigation is needed. Long-term, multi-center trials are crucial to confirm the treatment’s effectiveness and safety across a larger population.
Beyond the practical benefits, this research represents a shift in how age-related vision loss is approached. Instead of solely relying on corrective measures like glasses or surgery, the eye drops work directly on the eye’s natural focusing mechanisms, temporarily restoring accommodation. This offers patients greater independence in everyday tasks like reading, using smartphones, and performing detailed work, without the need for invasive procedures or constant reliance on optical correction.
