This activity was originally presented at the 2026 Directions in Pharmacy (DIP) Conference.
Program Description
Dry eye disease (DED) is a common ocular surface disorder characterized by symptoms such as ocular discomfort, burning, foreign body sensation, and blurred vision due to tear film homeostasis. While many patients may be able to manage their initial discomfort with OTC products, effective treatment of moderate to severe and inflammatory DED often requires prescription therapies, which can present significant challenges for patients.
This webinar will support community pharmacists in triaging patients with DED. A key focus will be on the pathophysiology of inflammatory DED, clarifying how to accurately differentiate between acute flares and chronic DED and recommend an appropriate therapeutic approach. The symptoms, diagnosis, and management of DED will also be reviewed alongside the mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of current OTC products and prescription options. Finally, evidence-based counseling techniques regarding risk factors, correct instillation to improve medication use, and appropriate product selection in inflammatory DED will be presented.
Target audience: Community pharmacists and retail
pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
Type of activity: Application
Release date: June 30, 2026
Expiration date: June 30, 2027
Learner level: Foundational
Time to complete activity: 1.0 hour
Fee: Free
Educational Objectives
At the completion of this activity, pharmacists will be able to:
- Identify the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) that can be managed with OTC products and those needing urgent referral to a specialist
- Differentiate the mechanisms, effectiveness, and safety of emerging and approved DED therapies, including OTC and prescription options, to support evidence-based decisions
- Apply counseling techniques for managing DED by highlighting risk factors and medication use during patient interactions
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