Netilmicin/dexamethasone effective for MGD-associated posterior blepharitis

The combination of netilmicin and dexamethasone is a safe and effective treatment for posterior blepharitis associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), according to a study.

The prospective, controlled trial included 40 patients with MGD and dry eye symptoms. Twenty patients received a combination eye gel containing netilmicin (3 mg/ml) and dexamethasone (1 mg/ml), while the other twenty received a vehicle treatment. Evaluations were performed at baseline, 15 days, and 45 days using various parameters, including the SANDE and VARS questionnaires, tear-film stability (NIBUT and TBUT), ocular redness, meibography, and lid margin assessments.

There were significant improvements in the treatment group across multiple measures, including symptom relief (SANDE, VARS), lid margin health, and tear-film stability (P < 0.0001). Of note, the treatment group outperformed the vehicle group in symptom scores and ocular surface outcomes at both 15 and 45 days.

Reference
Oliverio GW, Inferrera L, Postorino EI, et al. The efficacy of a netilmicin/dexamethasone gel combination in the treatment of posterior blepharitis in moderate-severe dry eye patients. Eur J Ophthalmol. 2024;:11206721241293175. doi: 10.1177/11206721241293175. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39434544.