Lacritec vs DRYeye Forte: Top Supplement for Dry Eye Relief

As professional optometrists, we frequently receive inquiries regarding whether nutritional supplements can genuinely enhance eye health or alleviate persistent symptoms. For numerous eye conditions, proper nutrition can serve as a crucial supporting element. A particularly well-researched area includes dry eye disease, where strategic nutrition and targeted supplements can yield significant improvements.

Multiple clinical studies have consistently demonstrated that a well-balanced diet, when combined with specific supplements, can enhance tear quality, decrease inflammation, and foster long-term comfort in the eyes. This compelling evidence underlines the importance of incorporating supplements into a comprehensive management strategy for effectively addressing dry eye symptoms.

In this context, two widely used supplements are Lacritec and DRYeye Forte. While both products aim to relieve dry eye symptoms, they markedly differ in their formulations, potency, and the effectiveness of their ingredients in the body.

This detailed comparative analysis elucidates these distinctions, empowering you to make an informed choice regarding your approach to managing dry eye symptoms.

In-Depth Ingredient Breakdown for Lacritec and DRYeye Forte

Key Ingredients Present in DRYeye Forte

• 667 mg re‑esterified omega‑3 triglycerides per capsule
  • 240 mg EPA
  • 160 mg DHA
• 455 mg borage oil, providing 100 mg GLA
• Vitamin D3 at 200 IU
• Natural vitamin E at 40 IU

Principal Ingredients in Lacritec

• 332 mg omega‑3 triglycerides per capsule
  • 134 mg EPA
  • 66.8 mg DHA
• 334 mg flaxseed oil
  • Supplies 192 mg ALA
• 434 mg borage oil providing 95.5 mg GLA
• No vitamin D3 included
• No vitamin E included

Unpacking the Importance of Various Omega‑3 Fatty Acids

While both supplements contain omega‑3 fatty acids, it is essential to recognise that not all omega‑3s function similarly within the body.

Lacritec incorporates flaxseed oil, which provides ALA. Although ALA is acknowledged as an omega‑3 fatty acid, the human body converts only a small fraction of ALA into the more critical forms necessary for alleviating dry eye symptoms, specifically EPA and DHA. Research indicates that the conversion efficiency of ALA to EPA is approximately 8–12 percent, with the majority of ALA being utilised as an energy source instead of contributing to eye health.

In contrast, DRYeye Forte directly offers EPA and DHA, leveraging higher concentrations in a re‑esterified format. This advanced production method significantly improves both absorption and bioavailability, ensuring that a larger proportion of the active ingredients effectively reaches the tissues in need of support.

When evaluating the effective levels of EPA and DHA:

• Three capsules of DRYeye Forte deliver a notably higher amount of EPA and DHA compared to three capsules of Lacritec.
• To achieve the same EPA and DHA content found in three capsules of DRYeye Forte, you would require approximately six Lacritec capsules.

Both supplements recommend initiating treatment with three capsules daily during the initial phase, making this difference clinically significant for users seeking effective relief.

Assessing the Quality and Sourcing of Fish Oil in Supplements

Both Lacritec and DRYeye Forte are produced in Australia, utilising premium quality fish oils sourced from small, cold-water fish such as sardines and anchovies from Peru. Smaller fish are less likely to accumulate harmful toxins, making them a safer option for supplementation purposes. Both oils undergo stringent purification and deodorisation processes to eliminate impurities and minimise any unpleasant fishy aftertaste.

DRYeye Forte employs re‑esterified triglyceride fish oil, which has demonstrated superior absorption compared to traditional ethyl ester forms. This innovation not only enhances consistency but also reduces gastrointestinal discomfort for many users, rendering it a preferred choice.

Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D and Vitamin E on Eye Health

A significant distinction between the two supplements is that DRYeye Forte includes both vitamin D3 and natural vitamin E in its formulation, which can greatly affect overall eye health.

The Benefits of Vitamin D3 in Supporting Eye Health

Research has established a strong association between low levels of vitamin D and the manifestation of dry eye symptoms. Studies suggest that vitamin D may:

• Reduce ocular inflammation
• Enhance tear stability
• Facilitate the healing process of the ocular surface
• Alleviate light sensitivity and overall ocular discomfort

The Multifaceted Advantages of Vitamin E

Vitamin E serves a crucial dual purpose. It not only delivers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits but also protects omega‑3 fatty acids from oxidative damage. Long-term supplementation with fish oil can increase the body's demand for vitamin E, making its inclusion vital for maintaining balance and optimising omega‑3 metabolism.

Conversely, Lacritec lacks both vitamin D3 and vitamin E, which may limit its overall effectiveness in supporting eye health.

Analyzing the Safety and Tolerability of Dry Eye Supplements

Both supplements are generally well tolerated when administered according to the recommended dosage.

Potential side effects from either product may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as reflux, bloating, or loose stools. These effects are typically dose-dependent and can vary from person to person.

Individuals who are taking blood-thinning medications or who have bleeding disorders should consult a healthcare professional prior to starting either supplement.

Because of the presence of vitamin D3 in DRYeye Forte, individuals with hypercalcemia, kidney disease, or conditions sensitive to vitamin D should seek medical advice before use. In such cases, Lacritec may be a more suitable option due to its lack of vitamin D.

As with any supplements, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing chronic health conditions.

Selecting the Most Suitable Supplement for Your Needs

For the majority of individuals suffering from moderate to severe dry eye disease, DRYeye Forte offers more comprehensive and targeted support. This is attributed to:

• Higher concentrations of effective EPA and DHA
• Enhanced absorption through the use of re‑esterified fish oil
• The inclusion of vitamin D3 and vitamin E, which help mitigate inflammation and support tear production

Lacritec may still be appropriate for individuals experiencing very mild symptoms or those who cannot tolerate vitamin D supplementation.

Crucial Insights and Recommendations for Effective Dry Eye Management

Both supplements can make a positive impact on managing dry eye symptoms; however, they are not interchangeable.

DRYeye Forte provides higher therapeutic dosages of the most effective omega‑3 fatty acids, along with additional nutrients that assist in managing inflammation, enhancing tear quality, and supporting ocular surface health. For many patients, this translates to more effective symptom relief with fewer capsules required each day.

Ultimately, the ideal supplement is one that seamlessly integrates into a personalised dry eye treatment plan. If you are uncertain which product is best for your needs, we advise consulting with your optometrist or healthcare provider for tailored guidance.

Lacritec vs DRYeye Forte Commonly Asked Questions

Which supplement is more effective for dry eye relief: Lacritec or DRYeye Forte?

For the majority of individuals suffering from moderate to severe dry eye symptoms, DRYeye Forte emerges as the more effective option. It contains higher concentrations of EPA and DHA, the active omega-3 fatty acids known for their ability to reduce inflammation and improve tear quality, along with vitamin D3 and vitamin E for added support. Lacritec may still offer benefits in milder cases or when vitamin D supplementation is not advisable.

What are the primary distinctions between Lacritec and DRYeye Forte?

The most significant difference lies in their formulations and potency. DRYeye Forte features highly bioavailable re-esterified fish oils that deliver clinically significant doses of EPA and DHA, complemented by vitamin D3 and natural vitamin E. Conversely, Lacritec employs flaxseed oil, which provides ALA — an omega-3 source that is less effective and has limited conversion into EPA and DHA.

How many Lacritec capsules equal the EPA/DHA dosage found in DRYeye Forte?

To achieve the same levels of EPA and DHA present in three capsules of DRYeye Forte, you would need to consume roughly six Lacritec capsules. This discrepancy arises from Lacritec's lower omega-3 concentration and its reliance on ALA, which only partially converts into the more active forms that the body requires.

Is it safe to take DRYeye Forte if I have kidney disease or elevated calcium levels?

If you have kidney disease or hypercalcemia, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before beginning DRYeye Forte. The inclusion of vitamin D3 may not be appropriate for individuals with these conditions. In such cases, Lacritec, which does not contain vitamin D, may serve as a more suitable alternative.

Will I need to take dry eye supplements indefinitely?

Not necessarily. Many individuals initiate treatment with a higher dosage (three capsules daily) for 6–8 weeks and then reassess their condition with their optometrist. Some may transition to a maintenance dosage or discontinue use altogether if their symptoms improve. However, ongoing supplementation might still be beneficial for chronic or seasonal dry eye, particularly if there are underlying issues like inflammation or oil gland dysfunction.