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

As we have previously explained in 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 make a brief review and expansion of what has already been commented 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 that generates a hyperosmolarity of the tear. This hyperosmolarity and increased friction will lead to secondary infections, dehydration and malnutrition of the cornea and conjunctiva and increase the likelihood of corneal ulceration.

What layers form the tear film?

- Mucin layer: the innermost layer, modifies the surface tension of the tear so that it adheres and distributes properly over the surface of the cornea. Mucin is produced and secreted mainly in the conjunctival goblet cells.

- Aqueous layer: the middle layer and by far the most abundant. It hydrates the ocular surface and diffuses nutrients and oxygen essential for corneal metabolism. 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 protects the aqueous layer from evaporation, allowing it to remain longer on the eye. In addition, it also increases the surface tension of the tear, preventing it from overflowing (epiphora) at the eyelid margin and lubricates the eyelids. Produced and secreted mainly by the meibomian glands.

How are KCS classified?

The basic and most widespread classification is as follows:

- Qualitative: due to a 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 in the goblet cells of the conjunctiva.

- Quantitative: due to pathological decrease of 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 frequent type of KCS, although most usually progress to mixed KCS (quantitative and qualitative) over time.

How does LACRIMALIS+ help to improve the clinical signs of KCS?

LACRIMALIS+ is a food supplement based on natural products that helps to improve the clinical signs of dry eye by increasing the quantity and quality of tears.
Its formula rich in Omega 3 fatty acids helps to modify the lipid profile of the tear, making it of better quality and reducing evaporation. In addition, Omega 3 also has 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, which gives it anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
Finally, its precise combination of minerals, such as zinc and 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 in a natural and direct way, also maintaining the contribution of alpha-linolenic acid already present in LACRIMALIS. As for the tablet version, EPA and DHA are supplied pure to ensure a much higher proportion.