Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 24, 2026
08:38
Quantification of the Immunosuppressant Tacrolimus on Dried Blood Spots Using LC-MS/MS
Published on: November 8, 2015
17.5K
Tacrolimus eye drops as monotherapy for vernal keratoconjunctivitis: a randomized controlled trial
Eduardo Gayger Müller1, Myrna Serapião Dos Santos1, Denise Freitas1
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Arquivos Brasileiros De Oftalmologia
|August 24, 2017
Summary
Tacrolimus eye drops demonstrated superior efficacy over sodium cromoglycate in managing vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) symptoms and signs. This randomized trial found tacrolimus more effective for itching, photophobia, and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
Background:
- Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic allergic eye condition.
- Current treatments aim to manage inflammation and symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of tacrolimus eye drops versus sodium cromoglycate for VKC treatment.
- To evaluate safety and side effects of both treatments.
Main Methods:
- Randomized double-masked controlled trial.
- Tacrolimus 0.03% eye drops vs. sodium cromoglycate 4% eye drops, three times daily.
- Follow-up at days 0, 15, 30, 45, and 90, assessing visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and complications.
Main Results:
- Tacrolimus showed statistically significant improvements in itching, foreign body sensation, photophobia, keratitis, and limbal activity compared to sodium cromoglycate.
- No significant adverse effects were reported for tacrolimus, aside from mild burning.
Conclusions:
- Tacrolimus monotherapy is more effective than sodium cromoglycate for treating VKC symptoms and signs.
- Tacrolimus offers a safe and effective alternative for managing VKC.
