OptiMel: A Breakthrough in Dry Eye and Allergy Treatment Using Manuka Honey

Welcome, everyone, to today’s session. As we gather, I want to mention that this presentation is being recorded. For those who join later, or if you’d like to revisit the information, I will ensure that Arnold has a copy to share with all of you. This way, you won’t miss out on any of the valuable insights we’re about to discuss.

Originally, we planned a grand introduction of OptiMel at the ASIS meeting. However, due to the changes brought about by COVID-19, we’ve adapted to smaller, more focused presentations like this one to introduce OptiMel to the U.S. market. Today, I'll share my extensive experience with this product, which has been a game-changer in treating dry eye and allergies.

OptiMel: An Overview

OptiMel is not a new product in the global market, though it’s only recently making its way into the U.S. healthcare landscape. This eye drop, which contains Manuka honey, has been used for several years in Australia and New Zealand with remarkable success. For those unfamiliar, Manuka honey has a well-documented history of use in various medical applications, particularly for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

In my practice, we have been working diligently to get OptiMel approved in the United States. As you may know, Manuka honey is a staple in natural medicine, often recommended for its healing properties. Patients frequently ask about the benefits of honey for everything from allergies to skincare, and the science behind these claims is increasingly robust. Let’s delve into why Manuka honey, in particular, is so special, and how OptiMel leverages its unique properties for eye health.

My Experience in Eye Care and Dry Eye Treatment

To give you some context, my practice specializes in cataract surgery, LASIK, and particularly in treating dry eye—a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Over the past 20 years, I’ve established a dry eye clinic where we’ve been at the forefront of research and treatment development. We’ve explored various innovative treatments, including intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, LED light therapy, and numerous eye drops.

Our approach has always been to test a wide range of treatments and retain only those that prove effective. Over the years, we’ve tried countless eye drops, both domestic and international. One standout product we’ve adopted is Oculos, an all-natural artificial tear containing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and perilla. Another product that has shown exceptional promise is OptiMel, which harnesses the power of Manuka honey.

The Origins and Power of Manuka Honey

The first time I encountered Manuka honey was in the context of treating burn patients. It was used to promote healing and protect damaged skin—a testament to its remarkable properties. Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush, native to New Zealand and Australia. This honey is not just any ordinary honey; it has unique health properties that make it particularly effective for medical use.

Manuka honey has been found to benefit the digestive system, improve skin health, and even alleviate allergies. But what makes it truly extraordinary are its antimicrobial properties and its ability to boost the immune system. These benefits are not merely anecdotal; they are backed by rigorous scientific research. In the past, some might have dismissed these claims as alternative medicine, but today, the evidence is clear and compelling.

The Mechanism of OptiMel

OptiMel comes in two forms: a drop and a gel. The drops contain approximately 16% Manuka honey, while the gel has a much higher concentration at about 98%. In addition to these, there’s also a nasal spray version in development, which we’re working to get approved. This nasal spray could be particularly beneficial for patients who suffer from allergies, as it targets both the nasal passages and the eyes.

Now, you might wonder, why use Manuka honey instead of regular honey? The secret lies in a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is the ingredient responsible for the potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of Manuka honey. Compared to other types of honey, Manuka honey has the highest concentration of MGO, making it far more effective in medical applications. This is why Manuka honey is increasingly used in products designed to treat a variety of health conditions, including those affecting the eyes.

Scientific Studies Supporting OptiMel

One of the most compelling aspects of OptiMel is the growing body of scientific research supporting its efficacy. Numerous studies have demonstrated that OptiMel has significant antibacterial properties, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria found on the eyelid margin. What’s even more remarkable is its ability to combat Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a notoriously difficult-to-treat bacterial strain.

MRSA is present in about 20% of the general population, with even higher rates among healthcare professionals. Given the prevalence of MRSA, especially in individuals who work in medical settings, OptiMel’s ability to address this pathogen is a major breakthrough.

But the benefits of OptiMel don’t stop there. Research has also shown that it’s effective in reducing NF-kB production—a protein complex involved in inflammatory and immune responses. This reduction is particularly beneficial for patients with allergic reactions, as it helps mitigate the body’s inflammatory response. For patients who suffer from both dry eye and allergies, OptiMel offers a dual benefit: it alleviates dry eye symptoms while also addressing the underlying allergic response.

Using OptiMel in Clinical Practice

In our clinic, we’ve developed a standardized approach to using OptiMel. For most patients, we recommend using the drops twice a day. The ointment, due to its higher concentration of Manuka honey, is typically applied once a day, usually at night. Initially, we favored the ointment because of its higher Manuka honey content. However, as we gained more experience, we found that the drops were sufficient for the majority of our patients.

One important thing to note is that OptiMel can cause a stinging sensation when first applied. This is due to its low pH, which is slightly more acidic than the natural pH of tears. For most patients, this stinging lasts for about 30 seconds to a minute with the drops, and two to three minutes with the ointment. However, once the pH equilibrates in the tear film, the discomfort subsides, and patients often report significant relief.

To ensure patient compliance, it’s crucial to prepare them for this initial stinging sensation. In our clinic, we keep sample vials of OptiMel on hand. Before prescribing it, I administer a drop to demonstrate what the stinging feels like, so patients know what to expect.

Considerations and Safety Precautions

While OptiMel is a powerful tool in managing dry eye and allergies, it’s not suitable for everyone. We do not recommend using it in children under the age of one, as their immune systems are not fully developed, and there is a small risk of botulism from honey. Additionally, while the ointment form of OptiMel does not contain preservatives, the drops include benzoic acid as a preservative. Interestingly, we’ve found that benzoic acid is gentler on the cornea than the more commonly used BAK (benzalkonium chloride).

Another advantage of OptiMel is its dual function as both a treatment and a lubricant. The Manuka honey in the drops and ointment not only provides anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits but also forms a protective coating on the surface of the eye. This coating helps retain moisture, offering relief to patients with dry eye.

Integrating OptiMel with Other Treatments

For patients with severe dry eye or those who have both dry eye and allergies, OptiMel can be used in conjunction with other treatments. For example, in cases where immediate allergy relief is needed, we might initially combine OptiMel with an antihistamine drop like Pataday. However, over time, as OptiMel’s effects become more pronounced, we gradually reduce the use of antihistamines.

We’ve also experimented with combining OptiMel with mild steroids like Alrex during the allergy season. This approach helps manage acute symptoms while allowing OptiMel to address the underlying inflammation and bacterial load. Over the course of a few weeks, most patients experience significant improvement, allowing us to taper off other medications and rely primarily on OptiMel.

Patient Outcomes and Feedback

The feedback from patients who have used OptiMel has been overwhelmingly positive. Many report that their eyes feel more comfortable, with less redness and irritation. Some have even noted improvements in conditions like blepharitis, where the antibacterial properties of Manuka honey seem to reduce the bacterial load on the eyelids.

In terms of compliance, once patients get past the initial stinging, they generally find OptiMel easy to use. The drops are well-tolerated by most, and the added benefit of improved eye comfort makes it a worthwhile treatment option for many.

Conclusion and Future Directions

In conclusion, OptiMel represents a significant advancement in the treatment of dry eye and allergies. Its unique formulation, leveraging the natural power of Manuka honey, offers patients a new way to manage their symptoms effectively. As more research is conducted and more healthcare professionals become aware of its benefits, I believe OptiMel will become a staple in the treatment of ocular conditions.

We will continue to monitor the results and gather data on patient outcomes. Additionally, I’m excited about the potential approval of the nasal spray version, which could further enhance the versatility of this treatment.