Effect of Bioptron light therapy on dryness of eyes in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

To examine the short-term therapeutic effects of Bioptron light therapy (BLT) on dry eye disease (DED) in postmenopausal women. Sixty postmenopausal women diagnosed with DED, aged 50–62 years with a body mass index ≤ 30 kg/m², were randomly assigned to two equal groups. The Bioptron group (n = 30) received BLT for 10 min, twice weekly, along with an educational program for four weeks. The control group (n = 30) received the same educational program only. Outcomes were measured using Schirmer’s test (Schirmer I) for basal tear secretion, Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) for tear film stability, and the Dry Eye-related Quality of Life Score (DEQS) for quality of life (QOL). Both groups exhibited significant improvements post-treatment compared to pre-treatment in all variables, with greater percentage changes from baseline in the BLT group. Between-group comparisons revealed significantly higher improvements in the BLT group: Schirmer’s test (Schirmer I) improved by MD = 8.7 (95% CI: 7.64–9.76; p = 0.001), TBUT by MD = 2.97 (95% CI: 1.7–4.3; p = 0.007), and DEQS decreased by MD = − 24.1 (95% CI: −37 to − 17.1; p = 0.002). Compared with standardized education alone, adjunctive Bioptron light therapy significantly enhanced tear secretion, tear film stability, and patient-reported symptoms, suggesting its potential as an effective non-pharmacological option for managing dry eye in postmenopausal women. The trial was registered at Clinical Trials.gov (Identifier: NCT05964673)