Slow-release artificial tear inserts in the treatment of dry eyes resulting from the oculomucocutaneous syndrome.

Patients with dry eyes resulting from the practolol syndrome present a therapeutic challenge. Very frequent instillation of preservative-free drops are the only therapy in most cases. Using an entirely new agent--a hydrophilic polymer in insert form--we have provided in this open study an alternative therapy which shows some subjective and objective advantages. Few patients experienced problems, and none left the study because of failure of retention of the insert. Some patients preferred the cooling, soothing effects of frequent drops. The problems in mounting a clinical trial of this sort are discussed.