Serum help for first timer

[gichamp]

Everyone,

First thanks for availability of this forum and for all the posts - really there is nowhere else to go for help like this. I would like to pursue serum drops, but the eye doctors in my area (and I go to the largest practice in my city), just seem to be pretty basic although they do perform lasik, surgeries, etc. I am doing IPL and it is helping, but I really want off the restasis and lotemax and so want to try serum drops. How do I get started? Do most eye doctors know of these and how to order? I have gone to 3 different doctors in the current practice and none have mentioned to me and when I mention things like IPL, I have to educate them. What type of lab makes the drops? I know sometimes you can call the lab/compounding pharmacy and they will tell you doctors who order them. I just know if I wait for weeks for an appointment with my current doctor, it will be met with a "I am not familiar/comfortable prescribing those", so I would like to get educated. I am in South Carolina and have travelled to Charlotte for the IPL if there is anyone with a local doctor to recommend.

Again, many thanks to all who post.

[Guest]

google "DEWS report" - skip to the chapter on management of dysfunctional tear syndrome - serum tears are discusses - this reference is reputable and referenced in the major treatment guidelines, so your doc ought to trust it. Print it off and bring it along to your appointment.

[jthomp]

Hi gichamp, I am also using restasis and lotemax with little relief. I live near Charlotte and may consider the IPL, could you tell me who you go to there? I am also very interested in the serum drops, but haven't asked my dr. about them yet.
Thanks!

[gichamp]

I have been going to Dr. Ivan Mac at Metrolina Eye. I have had two of the recommended four treatments so far. Interestingly, he coded them with a diagnosis of Occular Roscea (which I do have in addition to MGD) and the insurance reimbursed $160 or the $350 I paid for each IPL so that is a positive.

[PotatoCakes]

There aren't any SC options listed here: http://www.dryeyezone.com/talk/showt...gous-eye-serum but there is at least on NC, if you have to look out of state. First, I'd check university hospitals in your area. This one looks promising http://www.muschealth.com/eyes

[jthomp]

Thanks for the information. I also have Ocular Rosacea and MGD. I had RK in 1991 which complicates things for me. I am so frustrating with trying different things, but none of it works. I'm glad your insurance company paid for it. I may look into this.