Chronic, Severe Dry Eyes
Serum Eye Drops Prepared in Town & Country Compounding’s Sterile Compounding Labs are a Unique, Personalized Option
Prescribers often prescribe autologous serum eye drop medication, a unique and natural approach for dry eyes, when a patient has a chronic problem without relief from other options. This customized eye drop, made from the patient’s own blood, is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Common causes of dry eyes
As we age, tear production may naturally decline, contributing to dry eye discomfort.
Hormonal fluctuations (including menopause or imbalances) can affect tear production and eye moisture.
Autoimmune conditions (including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren’s syndrome) may impact tear production.
Blinking helps distribute tears; incomplete blinking or eyelid issues (ectropion/entropion) can worsen dryness.
Environmental influences (dry/windy climates, smoke, indoor heating/AC) can reduce eye hydration.
Certain medications (including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants) may reduce tear production.
What is autologous serum eye drop medication?
Autologous means the donor and recipient are the same. Autologous serum contains natural components such as growth factors, vitamins, and proteins that can help nourish and protect the eye’s surface. Because it closely resembles natural tears, it can lubricate the eyes and may help relieve dryness and discomfort.
It may also support an anti-inflammatory effect on the eye’s surface. Unlike many commercial eye drops, autologous serum eye drops do not contain preservatives, which may make them suitable for longer-term use without added irritation risk.
How is a patient’s serum collected?
The patient goes to a lab for a blood draw. Red blood cells and clotting factors are removed (via centrifugation), leaving behind blood serum. The serum is then sent to the pharmacy and diluted with a sterile, preservative-free solution to create a customized eye drop containing growth factors and nutrients normally found in healthy tears.
Since blood and tears have similar salinity and pH, burning or stinging upon use is not usually a problem. Because the drops are preservative-free, they are stored in the freezer until needed. (Source: clevelandclinic.org)
For patient and prescribing information
Autologous Serum Eye Drops (ASED)
The eye drops in this case are made from your own blood. Red blood cells and clotting factors are removed, leaving behind blood serum. This is diluted with a sterile, preservative-free solution to produce a tear substitute that is unique to the patient and contains growth factors and nutrients normally found in healthy tears.
A Prescription is Required.
Related:
Eye Surgery and Ophthalmology Sterile Compounded Medication
Hyaluronic Acid’s Role in Dry Eyes and Vision
Advancements in Addressing Chronic or Severe Dry Eyes
