NCT07606625 · University of California, Berkeley
Ocular Surface Health and Tear Film Stability With a Nasal Spray Dry Eye Treatment
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of nasal spray treatment on Meibomian gland function and ocular surface health in symptomatic dry eye patients with mild to moderate Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of nasal spray treatment on Meibomian gland function and ocular surface health in symptomatic dry eye patients with mild to moderate Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Interventions
DRUG
Varenicline 0.03Mg/Spray Nasal Soln
After meeting eligibility criteria and signing informed consent, participants will be dispensed a 3-month supply of varenicline 0.03mg/spray nasal solution. Participants will take the nasal spray home and spray once in each nostril twice daily for 3 months
Primary outcome measures
Change in tear lipid layer thickness
Time frame: Measured at baseline, 1-month, and 3 months
Change from baseline in the thickness of the tear lipid layer in microns measured using the EASYTEARView+ Dacryscope. An increase in tear lipid layer thickness is considered a positive treatment effect
Change in tear thinning rate
Time frame: Measured at baseline, 1-month, and 3 months
Change from baseline in the rate of tear thinning in %/sec measured using the EASYTEARView+ Dacryscope. A decrease in the rate of tear thinning is considered a positive treatment effect
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Is 18 years of age and has full legal capacity to volunteer (no max age requirement)
- Baseline Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) \>13
- Has mild to moderate MGD
- Has best corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better
- Has had an oculo-visual examination in the last two years
- Is willing to continue other daily dry eye management regimen (e.g., warm compresses, and/or eyelid margin cleaning)
- Is willing to discontinue other prescription medications for dry eye disease (DED) management
- Is willing to stop any topical eye drops before all planned visits
- Has read, understood, and completed the informed consent letter
Exclusion criteria
- Is participating in any other type of clinical or research study
- Is currently pregnant, nursing, lactating, or planning a pregnancy
- Is currently having \>50% blockage of Meibomian glands in more than two eyelids or significant atrophy (i.e., severe MGD)
- Is currently using any topical ocular medications
- Has chronic or currently active sinus related problems
- Has blepharitis \> grade 1
- Has active ocular infections
- Has a condition or in a situation which, in the examiner's opinion, may put the subject at significant risk, may confound the study results, or may significantly interfere with their participation in the study
- Has received Rx DED treatment within one week of enrollment
- Has received any thermal or light-based DED treatment within 30 days of enrollment
- Has significant corneal epithelial defects
- Has abnormal eyelid anatomy
- Has corneal neuropathic pain
- Has chronic or recurrent epistaxis (nosebleeds), coagulation disorders, or other conditions that may have led to a clinically significant increased risk of bleeding
- Has any intraocular surgery including trabeculectomy (MIGS, laser, or small incision glaucoma surgery allowed), extraocular surgery in either eye within 3 months, or refractive surgery within 12 months of enrollment
- Has a known allergy to a product used in this study
Where
- Berkeley, California
Collaborators
Viatris Inc.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations