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New Lacrifill Canalicular Gel release for Dry Eye Disease
Introducing Lacrifill Canalicular Gel: A Novel Dry Eye Therapy Now Commercially Available in the U.S.
Nordic Group B.V., through its U.S. subsidiary Nordic Pharma, has officially launched Lacrifill® Canalicular Gel, a new interventional dry eye treatment now commercially available in the United States. This innovative therapy offers eyecare professionals a targeted approach to managing dry eye disease (DED) by temporarily occluding the tear drainage system and preserving natural tears on the ocular surface.
Lacrifill® is a cross-linked hyaluronic acid derivative that works by filling the canalicular system—the tiny channels that normally drain tears from the eye—thereby reducing tear outflow and enhancing tear film retention. This mechanism supports improved ocular comfort, especially for patients whose dry eye symptoms persist despite conventional treatments.
FDA Clearance and Clinical Insights
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared Lacrifill® Canalicular Gel for clinical use, validating its safety and effectiveness as a dry eye management tool. Its approval marks an important milestone in expanding the therapeutic options available to optometrists and ophthalmologists treating moderate to severe dry eye symptomsassociated with tear film instability.
A recently published proof-of-concept pilot study included 63 patients with dry eye disease and demonstrated promising clinical outcomes. A majority of participants experienced minimal discomfort, with 83% reporting no pain during the procedure and 94% showing no signs of infection after treatment. Additionally, 63% of patients reported subjective improvement in symptoms following the Lacrifill® procedure. These findings highlight that canalicular gel therapy can be a well-tolerated, effective option for many individuals with persistent dry eye.
In-Office Procedure and Reimbursement
Lacrifill® Canalicular Gel is administered in a simple, in-office procedure performed by trained eyecare specialists. Each treatment is customized to fully fill the patient’s canalicular system, ensuring optimal tear retention and comfort. The effects of a single application can last up to six months, making it a long-acting solution compared with traditional tear supplements or temporary plugs.
Importantly for providers, Lacrifill® is covered under CPT reimbursement code 68761, helping to support clinical adoption and patient access to this emerging therapy.
A New Tool in Dry Eye Management
Industry leaders describe Lacrifill® as a disruptive technology in the evolving dry eye care landscape. Experts note that canalicular gel therapy provides a unique mechanism of action that complements existing treatments, particularly for patients whose symptoms are linked to tear drainage imbalance rather than merely tear production. Its introduction adds a valuable option for patients with dry eye related to surgery, ocular surface disease, or long-term tear film instability.
For optometry practices focused on comprehensive dry eye care, Lacrifill® Canalicular Gel represents an exciting advancement—offering a durable, minimally invasive, and clinically supported option that enhances patient outcomes and expands your therapeutic toolkit.
