Diclofenac Sodium, 0.1% (Voltaren Ophtha), Versus Sodium Chloride, 5%, in the Treatment of Filamentary Keratitis

Abstract

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy and short-term safety of diclofenac sodium, 0.1% (Voltaren Ophtha; Ciba-Vision) and of sodium chloride, 5% ophthalmic solution, in the treatment of filamentary keratitis (FK) in patients with dry-eye syndrome due to secondary Sjögren's syndrome. METHODS: Thirty-two patients (64 eyes) with dry-eye syndrome due to secondary Sjögren' syndrome were enrolled in a randomized study (patients and authors were aware of which medication was being used). All patients had FK. Sixteen patients were treated with sodium chloride, 5% drops, and 16 patients received diclofenac sodium, 0.1% eyedrops. Treatment regimen included instillation of 1 drop, 4 times a day for 28 days, for both groups. Clinical assessment was performed once a week during the study period. Data on the efficacy and safety of the different therapeutic regimens were collected and compared. RESULTS: Both medications achieved disappearance of filaments at the end of the study. Treatment with diclofenac sodium, 0.1%, revealed a significantly more rapid improvement of the clinical symptoms as compared with sodium chloride, 5%. No significant adverse effects were observed in both groups. CONCLUSION: Diclofenac sodium, 0.1%, may be an effective and safe topical therapy in patients with FK caused by secondary Sjögren's disease.