Doctors treating patients with dry eye disease may soon have a new treatment option in their armamentarium following approval of perfluorohexyloctane ophthalmic solution by the US FDA. The topical solution will be available by the name of MIEBO. It is a semifluorinated alkane and prevents evaporation of tears by forming a monolayer at the air-liquid interface of the tear film.^1,2 It is the first FDA approved drug that directly acts against excessive tear evaporation. Unlike other available tear drops, the solution does not contain water. The drug is expected to be available later this year.

Dry eye disease is a very common condition of the eye. Common symptoms include redness and/or burning in the eyes, itchy eyes, foreign body sensation in the eyes, photophobia, excessive watering. Dry eyes are characterized by either decreased secretion of tears or increased evaporation of tears.

Indication: Treatment of signs and symptoms of dry eye disease

Dose and administration: One drop four times daily in each eye. If the patient wears contact lenses, they should be removed before instilling the drops. Wait for a minimum of 30 minutes before using them

Formulation: Ophthalmic solution containing 100% perfluorohexyloctane in multiple-dose 5 mL bottles with dropper tips and screw caps,

Contraindications: None

Side effects: Blurring of vision, conjunctival redness

Warning and precautions: Avoid administering when wearing contact lenses

References

1. MEIBO prescribing information. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/216675s000lbl.pdf. Accessed on May 25, 2023.
2. FDA approves new treatment for common symptom of dry eye disease - Medscape - May 22, 2023.