Dr+Vet launches a new formulation of LACRIMALIS with a higher concentration of fatty acids, EPA and DHA called LACRIMALIS+

As we have previously explained on the blog through the article “Key Points of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca”, this is one of the most common ocular pathologies in the daily clinic of small animals. Let’s do a brief review and expansion of what was already discussed in the previous article:

What is keratoconjunctivitis sicca?

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) is an inflammatory disease of the ocular surface (cornea and conjunctiva) secondary to the deficiency of some of the phases of the tear film and which generates tear hyperosmolarity. This hyperosmolarity and increased friction will lead to secondary infections, dehydration and malnutrition of the cornea and conjunctiva and will increase the likelihood of corneal ulcerations.

What layers or phases make up the tear film?

– Mucinic layer: the innermost layer, it modifies the surface tension of the tear so that it adheres and distributes correctly on the surface of the cornea. Mucin is produced and secreted mainly in conjunctival goblet cells.

– Aqueous layer: the intermediate and by far the most abundant. It moisturizes the ocular surface and essential nutrients and oxygen for the metabolism of the cornea diffuse through it. It also has a physical effect by washing away corneal debris and foreign bodies. The aqueous portion is produced and secreted in the main and accessory lacrimal glands.

– Lipid layer: the outermost layer, it protects the aqueous layer from evaporation, allowing it to remain on the eye longer. In addition, it also increases the surface tension of the tear, preventing overflow (epiphora) along the eyelid edge and lubricates the eyelids. Produced and secreted mainly by the meibomian glands.

How are KCS classified?

The basic and most widespread classification is the following:

– Qualitative: due to pathological decrease in the lipid or mucoid components of the tear film, which makes it difficult for the tear to remain on the cornea, either due to excess evaporation or difficulty in adhering. It is usually due to damage or inflammation in the meibomian glands or goblet cells of the conjunctiva.

– Quantitative: due to pathological decrease in the aqueous component of the tear film. There may be different origins, the most common being localized and chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the lacrimal gland. It is the most common type of KCS, although most tend to progress to mixed KCS (quantitative and qualitative) over time.

How does LACRIMALIS+ intervene in the improvement of the clinical signs of KCS?

LACRIMALIS+ is a food supplement based on natural products that helps improve the clinical signs of dry eye by increasing the quantity and quality of tears.

Its formula rich in Omega 3 fatty acids helps modify the lipid profile of the tears, making them of better quality and thus reducing their evaporation. In addition, Omega 3 also provides an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect on the meibomian glands and the ocular surface.

LACRIMALIS+ is also enriched with Lactoferrin, a component naturally present in tears and which gives it anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Finally, its precise combination of minerals, such as zinc or copper, and vitamins C and E give it an antioxidant effect that enhances that of Omega 3 fatty acids.

What differentiates LACRIMALIS+ from the previous LACRIMALIS?

The main change in the formulation of LACRIMALIS concerns the source of Omega 3 fatty acids. In LACRIMALIS+ we have added purer sources of EPA and DHA. The liquid version is supplemented with a high proportion of fish oil, which contains EPA and DHA naturally and directly, also maintaining the contribution of alpha-linolenic acid already present in LACRIMALIS. As for the tablet version, EPA and DHA are provided pure to guarantee a much higher proportion.