For eye care practitioners, one of the most common conditions encountered is dry eye syndrome. Dry eye affects millions of people globally and is linked to discomfort, irritation, and even vision problems if left untreated. To help patients manage their dry eye symptoms, one may prescribe over-the-counter (OTC) lubricating drops to use at home, but did you know that there's a more effective solution available?

Enter: hypochlorous acid (HOCl). HOCl is a simple molecule that mimics the body's natural defense mechanism against bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. When this molecule is diluted in a solution of purified water, it’s extremely safe to use, non-toxic, and free from preservatives and other chemicals that can irritate the eyes.

4 Reasons You Should Be Sending Patients Home With Hypochlorous

HOCl is an easy-to-use, high-uptake treatment method that can help your patients combat dry eye symptoms at-home.

Let’s walk through some of the key benefits to using HOCl for at-home eye hygiene.

1. Effective Antimicrobial Action

HOCl is a powerful disinfectant that can effectively kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may cause eye infections, irritation and other eye conditions. Topical application of an HOCl solution can help prevent the spread of infections and reduce the risk of eye infections, especially in patients who are prone to them. In a study conducted in 2015, researchers found that, as a non-antibiotic based topical solution, hypochlorous acid was extremely well-tolerated and effective in the treatment of viral conjunctivitis².

2. Gentle on the Eyes

Unlike other disinfectants, HOCl is gentle on the eyes and can help soothe dry, irritated eyes. Research has shown that topical application of hypochlorous acid on the ocular skin significantly reduces the bacterial load present on the skin without negatively impacting the sensitive bacterial diversity in the area¹.

In fact, BIHOCL O.D. is a pure hypochlorous product that is especially safe to use for patients with sensitive eyes due to its low osmolarity, making it an excellent option for patients who have had prior reactions to other eye products.

3. HOCl Can Improve Symptoms of Dry Eye

HOCl can help improve symptoms of dry eye syndrome by keeping the eyes hydrated and reducing inflammation³. This can result in fewer symptoms such as burning, itching, and redness. In clinical studies, consistent application of hypochlorous acid has been shown to improve patient comfort and actively combat dry eye symptoms³. The best part is, no side effects have been reported with the topical application of HOCl, meaning your patients can reach for this solution as often as they need.

4. Convenient and Easy to Use At Home

HOCl solutions come in a variety of shapes and sizes — not to mention a variety of purity and quality.

With BIHOCL O.D., quality, safety, and convenience are never a compromise. It is available in 2 fl. oz. and 4 fl. oz. formats which offers easy-to-use convenience for any size hands (and any size pockets). Plus, using the product is quick and simple, which typically means significant increases in patient compliance and up-take. This is feedback we have continued to receive about BIHOCL O.D.

With uncontrolled blepharitis, our concern turned to the vision in my patient’s remaining good eye. Adding twice daily application of BIHOCL O.D. to her management plan changed the course of her disease and her life. With no adverse sensitivities and a simple means of application, this was one therapeutic option that she could maintain consistently. Three years on, her blepharitis is still under control and, more importantly, she can still see to enjoy life and her grandchildren!”

— Dr. Daniel Robinson, O.D. at Grand River Optometry

Patients can simply spray the solution into their eyes, making it a practical option for those who struggle to use traditional eye drops. The versatility of the solution also means that patients can use the product to wipe or cleanse the eyelid area, reducing bacterial loads present on the ocular tissue, as well as resolving irritation and dry eye symptoms associated with discomfort.

Let BIHOCL Be Your Gamechanger

Sending patients home with HOCl can be a total gamechanger for helping your patients in managing their dry eye syndrome. By prescribing a safe and effective solution that's gentle on the eyes but powerful on bacteria, you can help improve your patients' eye health and reduce their symptoms while ensuring their treatment compliance and offering them a way to help restore ocular comfort.

By recommending HOCl products like BIHOCL O.D. for at-home eyegiene, you can help your patients take control of their eye health and feel more comfortable and confident in their daily lives.