Lycium barbarum polysaccharide for dry eye symptoms in adults
Official title: Efficacy of Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide in Dry Eye Disease Management : A Pilot Study
Run by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT07842536 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Adults with dry eye disease will try taking Lycium barbarum polysaccharide tablets twice daily for 12 weeks to see if their symptoms and eye tests improve and to check safety.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong, Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 14, 2026 |
| Main results expected | January 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | August 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 10, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07842536 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–60 with a clinical diagnosis of dry eye disease and a dry eye symptom burden (OSDI-12 score ≥ 13) plus at least one clinical sign.
✕Probably not a fit
Some participants may not experience symptom relief or objective improvement in tear film or ocular surface metrics.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This pilot study tests whether oral Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) can improve symptoms and clinical signs of dry eye disease in adults. Participants will take LBP twice daily for 12 weeks and attend visits at baseline, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks for questionnaires and eye examinations measuring tear film, tear production, and ocular surface health. The study will provide preliminary data on safety and potential benefits to guide future larger trials. It employs standardized optometric assessments in a clinical research setting to characterize changes over time. Outcomes will inform whether further investigation in a controlled trial is warranted.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience reduced dry eye symptoms and improved ocular surface health during the study period.
How similar studies have gone: Clinical data on oral LBP for dry eye are limited; this pilot study will provide initial insights for future research.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 to 60 years at enrollment. * Clinical diagnosis of dry eye disease, defined as OSDI-12 score \>=13 and at least one clinical sign of dry eye disease. * Habitual visual acuity 6/9 or better in both eyes. * Able to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Ocular infection within 3 months before enrollment or ocular disease other than dry eye disease. * History of ocular surgery, including refractive surgery. * Use of dry eye-related products, such as artificial tears, within 1 month before enrollment. * Contact lens wear within 1 month before enrollment. * Long-term use of medications known to affect dry eye symptoms. * Severe or unstable systemic disease. * Infectious disease, such as viral influenza. * Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Lycium barbarum polysaccharide. * Pregnant or breastfeeding. * Any condition that, in the investigator's judgment, makes the participant unsuitable for the study.
Where it's running
-
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, School of Optometry, Optometry Clinic
Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Thomas C LAM, PhD
- Email: thomas.c.lam@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +852 27666115
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.