The effect of topical insulin in the treatment of isotretinoin-associated dry eye disease in patients with acne vulgaris.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical insulin (TI) for isotretinoin-associated dry eye disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, 48 patients with isotretinoin-associated dry eye disease received either topical insulin (study group) or artificial tears (control group). Ocular surface disease index (OSDI), Tear break-up time (TBUT), and Schirmer I test (ST) values were assessed at baseline and after 4 weeks. RESULTS: OSDI and ST values improved significantly in the study group, whereas OSDI worsened and ST values remained unchanged in controls. TBUT was stable in the study group but decreased significantly in controls. No adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS: TI may represent a potentially useful therapeutic option for isotretinoin-associated dry eye disease.