Dry Eye Relief: Lacritec Compared to DRYeye Forte

As experienced optometrists, we often receive questions about whether nutritional supplements can genuinely enhance eye health or alleviate chronic symptoms. For a variety of eye-related conditions, proper nutrition plays a supportive role. One area with substantial research backing is dry eye disease, where nutrition and targeted supplementation can offer significant benefits.

Numerous clinical studies consistently indicate that a well-balanced diet, combined with specific supplements, can improve tear quality, reduce inflammation, and promote long-lasting comfort in the eyes. This compelling evidence highlights the necessity of including supplements in a holistic management strategy to effectively tackle dry eye symptoms.

Two commonly utilised supplements in this context are Lacritec and DRYeye Forte. While both products aim to alleviate dry eye symptoms, they differ significantly in their formulations, strength, and the effectiveness of their ingredients within the body.

This comparative analysis clarifies these distinctions, empowering you to make an educated choice regarding your strategy for managing dry eye symptoms.

Detailed Ingredient Analysis for Lacritec and DRYeye Forte

Essential Ingredients in DRYeye Forte

• 667 mg re-esterified omega-3 triglycerides per capsule
  • 240 mg EPA
  • 160 mg DHA
• 455 mg borage oil providing 100 mg GLA
• Vitamin D3 200 IU
• Natural vitamin E 40 IU

Significant Ingredients Found in Lacritec

• 332 mg omega-3 triglycerides per capsule
  • 134 mg EPA
  • 66.8 mg DHA
• 334 mg flaxseed oil
  • Offers 192 mg ALA
• 434 mg borage oil delivering 95.5 mg GLA
• No vitamin D3
• No vitamin E

Recognising the Significance of Different Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Although both supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, it is crucial to understand that not all omega-3s operate in the same manner within the body.

Lacritec includes flaxseed oil, which provides ALA. While ALA is recognised as an omega-3 fatty acid, the human body only converts a small percentage of ALA into the more essential forms that alleviate dry eye symptoms, specifically EPA and DHA. Research shows that the conversion rates of ALA to EPA range from 8–12 percent, with the majority of ALA being utilised as an energy source rather than for eye health.

On the other hand, DRYeye Forte supplies EPA and DHA directly, utilising higher concentrations in a re-esterified format. This superior manufacturing method enhances both absorption and bioavailability, ensuring that a greater proportion of the active ingredients effectively reaches the tissues where they are most needed.

When assessing the effective levels of EPA and DHA:

• Three capsules of DRYeye Forte provide a significantly higher quantity of EPA and DHA compared to three capsules of Lacritec.
• To match the EPA and DHA content found in three capsules of DRYeye Forte, you would need to consume approximately six Lacritec capsules.

Both supplements recommend starting with three capsules daily during the treatment phase, making this difference clinically significant for users seeking effective relief.

Evaluating the Quality and Sourcing of Fish Oil in Supplements

Both Lacritec and DRYeye Forte are manufactured in Australia and use high-quality fish oils sourced from small, cold-water fish such as sardines and anchovies from Peru. Smaller fish typically accumulate fewer toxins, making them a safer option for supplementation. Both oils undergo stringent purification and deodorisation processes to remove impurities and reduce any undesirable fishy aftertaste.

DRYeye Forte uses re-esterified triglyceride fish oil, which has been shown to have superior absorption compared to traditional ethyl ester forms. This innovation not only enhances consistency but also diminishes gastrointestinal discomfort for many users, making it a preferred choice.

Investigating the Effects of Vitamin D and Vitamin E on Eye Health Improvement

A key difference between the two supplements is that DRYeye Forte includes both vitamin D3 and natural vitamin E in its formulation, which can significantly influence eye health.

Examining the Positive Effects of Vitamin D3 on Eye Health

Research has identified a strong correlation between low vitamin D levels and dry eye symptoms. Studies propose that vitamin D may:

• Reduce ocular inflammation
• Enhance tear stability
• Facilitate the healing of the ocular surface
• Alleviate light sensitivity and overall ocular discomfort

The Multiple Advantages of Vitamin E

Vitamin E serves an essential dual purpose. It not only offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits but also safeguards omega-3 fatty acids from oxidative damage. Long-term fish oil supplementation may heighten the body's requirement for vitamin E, making its inclusion crucial for maintaining balance and optimising omega-3 metabolism.

In contrast, Lacritec does not contain either vitamin D3 or vitamin E, potentially limiting its overall efficacy in promoting eye health.

Evaluating the Safety and Tolerability of Omega-3 Supplements

Both supplements are generally well tolerated when taken as per the recommended dosage.

Possible side effects from either product may include mild gastrointestinal disturbances such as reflux, bloating, or loose stools. These effects typically depend on the dosage and can vary among individuals.

Individuals who are on anticoagulant medications or have bleeding disorders should consult a healthcare professional prior to starting either supplement.

Due to the presence of vitamin D3 in DRYeye Forte, individuals with hypercalcemia, kidney disease, or conditions affected by vitamin D should seek advice from a medical professional before use. In such cases, Lacritec might be a more suitable option due to its lack of vitamin D.

As with any supplements, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing chronic health conditions.

Choosing the Most Appropriate Supplement for Your Dry Eye Management

For the majority of individuals experiencing moderate to severe dry eye disease, DRYeye Forte offers more comprehensive and targeted support. This is due to:

• Higher concentrations of effective EPA and DHA
• Improved absorption through the use of re-esterified fish oil
• Inclusion of vitamin D3 and vitamin E, which help control inflammation and support tear production

Lacritec may still be suitable for those with very mild symptoms or for individuals who cannot tolerate vitamin D supplementation.

Essential Insights and Recommendations for Effective Dry Eye Management

Both supplements can positively influence the management of dry eye symptoms; however, they are not interchangeable.

DRYeye Forte supplies higher therapeutic doses of the most effective omega-3 fatty acids, along with additional nutrients that aid in managing inflammation, improving tear quality, and supporting ocular surface health. Many patients report more effective symptom relief with fewer capsules required daily.

Ultimately, the most appropriate supplement is one that seamlessly integrates into a personalised dry eye treatment strategy. If you are uncertain about which product best suits your needs, we recommend consulting with your optometrist or healthcare provider for tailored advice.

Lacritec vs DRYeye Forte Frequently Asked Questions

Which supplement offers superior dry eye relief: Lacritec or DRYeye Forte?

For the majority of individuals suffering from moderate to severe dry eye symptoms, DRYeye Forte stands out as the more effective option. It contains elevated levels of EPA and DHA, the active omega-3s known to reduce inflammation and enhance tear quality, along with vitamin D3 and vitamin E for additional support. Lacritec may still provide benefits in milder cases or when vitamin D supplementation is not advisable.

What are the main differences between Lacritec and DRYeye Forte?

The primary difference lies in their formulations and potency. DRYeye Forte contains highly bioavailable re-esterified fish oils that provide clinically relevant doses of EPA and DHA, accompanied by vitamin D3 and natural vitamin E. Conversely, Lacritec employs flaxseed oil, which offers ALA — an omega-3 source that is less effective and has limited conversion into EPA and DHA.

How many Lacritec capsules are needed to equal the EPA/DHA dosage found in DRYeye Forte?

To achieve equivalent amounts of EPA and DHA found in three capsules of DRYeye Forte, one would need to take approximately six Lacritec capsules. This requirement stems from Lacritec's lower omega-3 concentration and its reliance on ALA, which only partially converts into the more bioactive forms necessary for the body.

Is it safe to use DRYeye Forte if I have kidney issues or elevated calcium levels?

If you have kidney disease or hypercalcemia, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before initiating DRYeye Forte. The inclusion of vitamin D3 may not be appropriate for individuals with these conditions. In such scenarios, Lacritec, which does not contain vitamin D, may be the more suitable alternative.

Will I need to take dry eye supplements indefinitely?

Not necessarily. Many individuals start treatment with a higher dosage (three capsules daily) for 6–8 weeks before re-evaluating their condition with their optometrist. Some may switch to a maintenance dosage or discontinue use altogether if their symptoms improve. However, ongoing supplementation might be beneficial for chronic or seasonal dry eye, especially if there are underlying issues such as inflammation or oil gland dysfunction.