Dry Eye Relief Supplements: Lacritec vs DRYeye Forte

As qualified optometrists, we frequently encounter inquiries regarding the effectiveness of nutritional supplements in enhancing eye health and alleviating persistent symptoms. For a variety of ocular conditions, appropriate nutrition plays an essential supportive role. Notably, an area with extensive research backing is dry eye disease, where both nutrition and targeted supplementation can yield substantial benefits.

A multitude of clinical studies consistently demonstrate that a well-balanced diet, when combined with specific supplements, can enhance tear quality, diminish inflammation, and foster long-term comfort in the eyes. This compelling evidence underscores the critical importance of incorporating supplements into a comprehensive management strategy for effectively addressing dry eye symptoms.

Among the popular supplements in this domain are Lacritec and DRYeye Forte. Although both products aim to mitigate dry eye symptoms, they are fundamentally different in their formulations, potency, and the efficiency with which their ingredients act within the body.

This comparative analysis elucidates these distinctions, empowering you to make a well-informed choice regarding your approach to managing dry eye symptoms effectively.

In-Depth Ingredient Breakdown for Lacritec and DRYeye Forte

Key Ingredients Found 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

Main Ingredients in Lacritec

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

Understanding the Importance of Various Omega‑3 Fatty Acids

While both supplements contain omega‑3 fatty acids, it is essential to realise that not all omega‑3s function in the same way within the human body.

Lacritec incorporates flaxseed oil, which provides ALA. Although ALA is acknowledged as an omega‑3 fatty acid, the human body only converts a minor percentage of ALA into the more crucial forms necessary for alleviating dry eye symptoms, specifically EPA and DHA. Research indicates that the conversion rates of ALA to EPA are approximately 8–12 percent, with most ALA being used as an energy source rather than for enhancing eye health.

In contrast, DRYeye Forte supplies EPA and DHA directly, utilising higher concentrations in a re‑esterified format. This advanced manufacturing process boosts both absorption and bioavailability, ensuring a larger proportion of the active ingredients effectively reaches the ocular tissues where they are most needed.

When assessing the effective levels of EPA and DHA:

• Three capsules of DRYeye Forte deliver a significantly higher amount 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 require approximately six Lacritec capsules.

Both supplements suggest commencing with three capsules daily during the treatment phase, making this disparity clinically significant for users seeking effective relief.

Investigating the Quality and Sourcing of Fish Oil in Supplements

Both Lacritec and DRYeye Forte are produced in Australia and utilise high-quality fish oils extracted from small, cold-water fish such as sardines and anchovies sourced from Peru. Smaller fish are less likely to accumulate harmful toxins, making them a safer option for supplementation. Both oils undergo stringent purification and deodorisation processes to eliminate impurities and reduce any undesirable fishy aftertaste.

DRYeye Forte employs re‑esterified triglyceride fish oil, which has demonstrated superior absorption compared to traditional ethyl ester forms. This innovation not only enhances consistency but also reduces gastrointestinal discomfort for many users, establishing it as a preferred choice among consumers.

Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D and Vitamin E on Eye Health

A significant difference between the two supplements is that DRYeye Forte contains both vitamin D3 and natural vitamin E in its formulation, which can greatly affect eye health outcomes.

The Beneficial Effects of Vitamin D3 on Eye Health

Research highlights a strong link between low vitamin D levels and dry eye symptoms. Studies indicate that vitamin D may:

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

The Multidimensional Benefits of Vitamin E

Vitamin E serves a crucial dual function. It not only offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory advantages but also protects omega‑3 fatty acids from oxidative damage. Prolonged fish oil supplementation may increase the body's requirement for vitamin E, making its inclusion vital for ensuring balance and optimising omega‑3 metabolism.

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

Assessing the Safety Profile and Tolerability of Supplements

Both supplements are generally well tolerated when taken as directed according to the recommended dosage.

Possible side effects from either product may include mild gastrointestinal issues such as reflux, bloating, or loose stools. These effects are typically dose-dependent and can differ among individuals.

Individuals on blood-thinning medications or those with bleeding disorders should consult a healthcare professional prior to starting either supplement.

Given the presence of vitamin D3 in DRYeye Forte, those with hypercalcemia, kidney disease, or conditions sensitive to vitamin D should seek medical advice before use. In such scenarios, Lacritec may be a more suitable option due to its lack of vitamin D.

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

Selecting the Ideal Supplement to Suit Your Individual Needs

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

• Higher concentrations of potent EPA and DHA
• Enhanced absorption through the utilisation of re‑esterified fish oil
• Inclusion of vitamin D3 and vitamin E, which aid in managing inflammation and supporting tear production

Lacritec may still be suitable for individuals with very mild symptoms or those who are unable to tolerate vitamin D supplementation.

Key Insights and Recommendations for Effective Dry Eye Management

Both supplements can make a positive impact on managing dry eye symptoms; however, they are not interchangeable.

DRYeye Forte provides higher therapeutic dosages of the most effective omega‑3 fatty acids, alongside additional nutrients that help manage inflammation, enhance tear quality, and support ocular surface health. For numerous patients, this results in more effective symptom relief with fewer capsules needed on a daily basis.

Ultimately, the best supplement is one that integrates smoothly into a personalised dry eye treatment plan. If you are uncertain which product best meets your needs, we recommend consulting with your optometrist or healthcare provider for tailored advice and guidance.

Lacritec vs DRYeye Forte Common Queries and Answers

Which supplement delivers superior relief from dry eye symptoms: Lacritec or DRYeye Forte?

For the vast majority of individuals suffering from moderate to severe dry eye symptoms, DRYeye Forte emerges as the more effective option. It contains higher concentrations of EPA and DHA, the active omega-3s known to mitigate inflammation and improve tear quality, along with vitamin D3 and vitamin E for added support. Lacritec may still offer benefits in milder cases or when vitamin D supplementation is not recommended.

What distinguishes Lacritec from DRYeye Forte?

The primary distinction resides in their formulations and potency. DRYeye Forte features highly bioavailable re-esterified fish oils that deliver clinically significant doses of EPA and DHA, complemented by vitamin D3 and natural vitamin E. Conversely, Lacritec employs flaxseed oil, which supplies ALA — an omega-3 source that is less effective and has limited conversion into EPA and DHA.

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

To attain the same levels of EPA and DHA present in three capsules of DRYeye Forte, you would need to consume roughly six Lacritec capsules. This requirement arises from Lacritec's lower omega-3 concentration and its dependence on ALA, which only partially converts into the more bioactive forms the body requires.

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

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

Will I need to continue taking dry eye supplements indefinitely?

Not necessarily. Many individuals initiate treatment with a higher dosage (three capsules daily) for a period of 6–8 weeks and then reassess their condition with their optometrist. Some may transition to a maintenance dosage or discontinue use altogether if their symptoms improve. However, ongoing supplementation may be advantageous for chronic or seasonal dry eye, particularly if underlying issues such as inflammation or oil gland dysfunction persist.