Comparing Efficacy of Tea Tree Oil Versus Topical Azithromycin in Treating Dry Eye

Summary

This study aims to compare the effects of azithromycin and tea tree oil on the clinical outcomes and inflammatory profile of patients with MGD-associated DED. By focusing on changes in tear IL-8 and IL-17 levels, the study seeks to provide insights into the differential mechanisms of these two treatments and their potential in addressing inflammation-driven DED.

Timeline

Start

2025-03-01

Primary completion

2025-10-01

Completion

2025-10-01

Publications

• El-Afify DR, Mahmoud RHH, Kotkata FA, Abdelhalim TI, Saad EME. Evaluating the efficacy of topical tea tree oil versus preservative-free azithromycin in the treatment of dry eye disease associated with meibomian gland dysfunction: A randomized controlled trial focusing on tear interleukin levels. Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2026 Sep 20;49(6):102843. doi: 10.1016/j.clae.2026.102843. Online ahead of print.

Drugs

Indications