PURPOSE: Existing treatments, including ocular vasoconstrictors and antihistamines, provide temporary relief from conjunctival hyperemia (CH) but continued use has been associated with tachyphylaxis and adverse events. This study explored healthcare professionals' (HCPs) experience treating CH.

METHODS: A semi-structured interview guide was developed based on a targeted literature review. Interviews were conducted with HCPs in Spain (n=4), Portugal (n=4), France (n=4), and the US (n=4) who were ophthalmologists experienced in treating CH with a range of approaches, including brimonidine tartrate (0.025%; BTOS), an ophthalmic decongestant available over the counter (OTC) in the US and via prescription only in Europe. Interview topics included CH pathology, treatment decisions, unmet needs and treatment satisfaction. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using content analysis. This study received ethical review exemption from the WCG Institutional Review Board.

RESULTS: HCPs had 14–25 years' experience treating CH and treated 40–100 CH patients in the prior month. HCPs reported limitations with existing treatments, such as eye sensitivity and rebound redness. BTOS was reported to be fast-acting and to cause fewer adverse events. HCPs emphasized the importance of determining and treating the cause of CH but noted BTOS was a well-tolerated adjunctive option. In Europe, it was suggested that while prescription-only status reduces accessibility, it helps ensure HCPs monitor the cause of CH. Conversely, US HCPs stated that while OTC availability increased accessibility, it was harder to monitor patient usage.

CONCLUSION: BTOS provides an effective and well-tolerated solution which addresses the aesthetic needs of patients with CH. HCPs highlight the need to identify and treat the underlying cause of CH, but report BTOS can be used as an adjunctive treatment.