Millions of people suffer from dry eye. It’s an uncomfortable condition that can occur for a variety of different reasons, including flying on an airplane, looking at a computer screen for too long, or as a side effect of certain medications. For some, it’s a temporary condition, but for many it’s a chronic problem.

Treating dry eyes usually involves either making lifestyle changes, prescription medication, or using eye drops, but those have their drawbacks. The FDA has approved a nasal spray that can help to improve the symptoms of dry eye.

What Is the Nasal Spray Treatment?

The FDA-approved nasal spray treatment for dry eye disease is called Tyrvaya in its brand name form. It’s produced by Oyster Point Pharma, which planned upon FDA approval to have the nasal spray available to wholesalers by November of 2021. The spray would cost $10 per treatment for those without health insurance while Oyster Point Pharma planned to negotiate with insurance companies for discounts for the insured. Each treatment would last for 15 days.

Who Should Use the Nasal Spray?

The nasal spray is, according to Oyster Point, ideal for those who haven’t experienced relief from their dry eye symptoms by using eye drops or artificial tears or those who have to use eye drops up to four times a day. Tyrvaya, which is a brand name for varenicline, can be prescribed by doctors for those who need it.

What Are the Benefits of the Nasal Spray?

The nasal spray is faster-acting than many prescription medications for treating dry eyes. It can start to relieve symptoms in as little as 14 days, while medications may take up to six months to be effective. Additionally, because it’s a nasal spray, it won’t irritate the eyes like eye drops might.

What Are Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when the eyes aren’t able to produce enough tears or if the tears they produce are of poor quality and evaporate before they’re able to moisten the eyes. The symptoms of dry eyes include:

  • Light sensitivity
  • Eye redness
  • Feeling like you have something in your eyes
  • Stringy mucus in the eyes
  • Burning sensation
  • Scratchy sensation
  • Stinging sensation
  • Trouble wearing contacts
  • Trouble driving at night
  • Watery eyes
  • Eye fatigue
  • Blurry vision
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