Advances in the Treatment of Demodex Blepharitis

Selina McGee, OD, FAAO, examines the prevalence, primary symptoms, quality of life impact, and the issues of underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis surrounding Demodex blepharitis in the United States.

A key opinion leader examines the historical context of Demodex blepharitis treatment, discussing the efficacy and limitations of previous therapies, and emphasizes a recently FDA-approved therapy that directly targets Demodex mites, leading to improved efficacy compared to treatments that only address symptoms.

Selina McGee, OD, FAAO, evaluates the cost and efficacy of in-office procedures like microblepharoexfoliation, the potential clinical and economic costs associated with delaying access to the FDA-approved treatment through prior authorization or mandating prior use of traditional over-the-counter therapies like tea tree oil and lid wipes, and considers impact on patient adherence.

A KOL considers how health care providers can enhance patient understanding of Demodex blepharitis and issues surrounding treatment adherence.

Lotilaner ophthalmic solution 0.25% drops are administered as twice daily for six weeks. Other ways of treating Demodex blepharitis manage symptoms, not the root cause, and are of indeterminate length.