Cyclic extranasal neurostimulation for dry eye disease: a 4-week stimulation and 6-week intermission regimen based on neural adaptation dynamics.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Extranasal neurostimulation is a promising therapy for aqueous-deficient dry eye (ADDE), but neural adaptation and optimal treatment duration remain poorly characterized. This study investigated duration-dependent neural sensitivity dynamics to formulate an optimized cyclic treatment regimen.

Methods

In this prospective, randomized, open-label trial, 50 ADDE patients (Schirmer test: 2-5 mm) were assigned to 2-week or 4-week bilateral extranasal neurostimulation (twice daily). Participants were followed for 6 weeks post-treatment. The primary outcomes were neural sensitivity changes (Δ Schirmer) and short-term recovery (6 weeks after stimulation cessation). Secondary endpoints included subjective symptoms and objective signs.

Results

Distinct neural adaptati

SUBMITTER: Zhuoruo X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12670825 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature