Evolving Care: Treating Demodex Blepharitis for Pharmacists

Program Description:

Demodex blepharitis is a common yet frequently under-recognized ocular inflammatory condition caused by an infestation of Demodex mites. This chronic condition is characterized by the presence of collarettes at the base of the eyelashes. These collarettes act as irritants and bacterial reservoirs, leading to lash damage and the characteristic ocular surface inflammation. If left untreated, this condition can lead to significant corneal complications, ocular discomfort, and a decreased quality of life. Yet, current management is hindered by the limitations of traditional off-label interventions, which often lack standardized dosing and proven efficacy against the underlying mite infestation. The therapeutic landscape has rapidly evolved with the introduction of novel FDA-approved targeted therapies with clinical data demonstrating improved mite eradication and lid hygiene outcomes. As these new treatments enter pharmacy workflows, specialty pharmacists play a critical role in supporting patients from diagnosis to adherence through expert counseling on administration techniques, managing expectations, and coordinating care with ophthalmology providers. This activity will review the pathophysiology of Demodex infestation, the clinical data supporting recently approved eyelid therapies, and practical strategies for specialty pharmacists to optimize patient identification, counseling, and long-term treatment adherence. By mastering the latest clinical evidence and consensus protocols, specialty pharmacists can effectively mitigate the risks of ineffective treatment and ensure patients receive the most advanced, evidence-based care available for this persistent ocular disease.

Target audience: specialty and pharmacy technicians 

Type of activity: Application

Release date: May 20, 2026

Expiration date: July 20, 2026

Time to complete activity: 1.5 hours

Learner level: Foundational, Intermediate, Advanced

Fee: Free

Educational Objectives:

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the key clinical signs, symptoms, and quality of life implications of Demodex blepharitis from overlapping ocular conditions
2. Compare the mechanisms of action and clinical evidence of FDA-approved and off-label therapies for Demodex blepharitis to support patient-specific treatment selection
3. Demonstrate appropriate patient counseling strategies for the administration, dosing, and adherence support of Demodex blepharitis medications

Accreditation Information

Pharmacy Times Continuing Education™ is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of continuing pharmacy education.

Each CE symposium is approved for 1.5 contact hours (0.15 CEU) of application-based credit.

Instructions for Completing the Activity and Receiving CPE Credit

To receive CPE credit, participants must complete the pretest, review the activity in its entirety, complete the posttest, and complete the online activity evaluation. After successful completion of the online activity evaluation, you can submit your credit to CPE Monitor. You may view your credit within 48 hours at www.mycpemonitor.net. All participants must request credit before the activity expiration date. CE credit will not be issued after this date.

Disclosures

Aderonke Adeboye, PharmD, BCPS, has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Jason Zupec, PharmD, BCACP, has the following relevant financial relationship with an ineligible company to disclose: Stock: Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (ended 8/2025)

Pharmacy Times Continuing Education™ Planning Staff: Jim Palatine, RPh, MBA; Adam C Welch, PharmD, MBA, FAPhA; Emily Tyler; Brianna Winters; and Chloe Taccetta; have no financial relationships with commercial interests to disclose.

All of the relevant financial relationships listed for these individuals have been mitigated. 

At least one anonymous peer reviewer has been used as part of content validation and conflict resolution. The peer reviewer has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose. 

Educational Disclaimer

CPE activities are offered solely for educational purposes and do not constitute any form of professional advice or referral. Discussions concerning drugs, dosages, and procedures may reflect the clinical experience of the author(s) or they may be derived from the professional literature or other sources and may suggest uses that are investigational in nature and not approved labeling or indications. Participants are encouraged to refer to primary references or full prescribing information resources.

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