AOA 2025: Perfluorohexyloctane demonstrates early symptom relief and patient satisfaction

Jacob Lang, OD, FAAO, an optometrist from Associated Eye Care in Hudson, Wisconsin, presented a research poster about perfluorohexyloctane during the American Optometric Association's Optometry's Meeting 2025. The poster focused on early symptom improvement and patient satisfaction with this treatment for dry eye disease. The study uniquely examined patient improvements during the initial stages of treatment, specifically within the first 2 weeks and even as early as day 1, which differs from many clinical trials that typically assess outcomes at later timepoints like week 2, week 4, or day 90. Key findings from the research include the following:

Clinically significant improvements

• Patients experienced substantial improvements in all dry eye symptoms
• Symptoms addressed included light sensitivity, eye dryness, and burning sensations
• These improvements were observed as early as the first day of treatment

Patient experience

• Participants found perfluorohexyloctane comfortable and effective
• High levels of patient satisfaction were reported throughout the 2-week study period

Clinical relevance

• The research provides clinicians with insights into potential rapid treatment responses
• Offers practitioners a better understanding of what patients can expect when using this new treatment
• Demonstrates the potential for quick symptomatic relief in dry eye disease management

Lang's professional credentials add weight to the study's credibility. As president of the Intrepid Eye Society and immediate past president of the Anterior Segment Section of the Academy of Optometry, his research carries significant professional authority. The study's primary value lies in its focus on early intervention and patient-centered outcomes. By highlighting potential improvements as quickly as day 1, the research offers hope for patients suffering from dry eye disease, who often seek rapid relief from their symptoms. This research contributes to the evolving understanding of dry eye treatments, emphasizing the importance of not just long-term efficacy but also immediate patient comfort and symptom management.