A meta-analysis of the efficacy of combining diquafosol tetrasodium with conventional therapy for dry eye disease

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of combining 3 % diquafosol tetrasodium (DQS) with conventional treatment in  addressing dry eye disease (DED). Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in databases, including CNKI, VIP, WANFANG, CBM,  DUXIU, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, and ProQuest up to June 5, 2023. Thirteen relevant  randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) were used for binary categorical variables, and  standardized mean difference (SMD) was employed for continuous variables and presented with 95 % confidence intervals (CI).  Publication bias was assessed using funnel plot diagrams and the Egger test. Results: Combined treatment with 3 % DQS had  significantly better efficacy than control group (that received conventional treatment alone) in improving clinical efficacy, prolonging tear  film break-up time, increasing tear secretion volume, and reducing corneal fluorescent staining (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the treatment  demonstrated a favorable safety profile. Conclusion: In the management of dry eye disease, the inclusion of 3 % DQS displays better therapeutic effects and safety when compared to other alternative approaches. This study underscores the potential of DQS as a  promising intervention for addressing the complex pathogenesis of DED. However, its long-term effectiveness and safety still need to be  further evaluated.