For healthcare professionals
Pioneers in preservative-free
Théa are experts in preservative-free eye care, with over 150 years of experience in eye care and ophthalmology. After a decade of research into how preservatives can affect the ocular surface, Théa were at the forefront of the preservative-free movement, pioneering preservative-free eye care with effective solutions targeting common patient issues and sharing knowledge with specialists worldwide. From the invention of the ABAK® bottle and the development of Steri-free® and Easy Grip® technology, we’re dedicated to making a difference.
We’re committed to continuous learning and discussion about the key issues in ophthalmic care, especially the use of preservatives. Find out more about our mission to transform eye care with our video below all about preservative-free treatments.
Why preservative-free?
Preservatives are increasingly recognised as negatively impacting on ocular structures even in concentrations as low as 0.005%¹. Patients with Dry Eye Disease (DED), particularly those who require frequent use of lubricants or other topical therapies, should avoid ocular lubricants that contain Benzalkonium chloride (BAK)². However, 75% of eye drops in the UK still contain preservatives3, which is why Théa is on a preservative-free mission.
Learning about the impact of preservatives on the surface of the eye is important, as it helps us push forward with effective preservative-free developments in eye care. Studies show that preservatives in eye drops can be toxic to the ocular surface, causing symptoms such as irritation, discomfort, foreign body sensation, itching, and burning. It can also lead to inflammation and impact the tear film.4
The ABAK® bottle
To help solve the issue of removing preservatives from eye care products, Théa officially launched the ABAK® bottle in 1995. With its high-security, high-technology dispenser delivering up to 300 drops (for a 10ml bottle) through a filter, it prevents microbial contamination.
ABAK® technology has undergone continuous improvements over the years that have made it smaller, more user-friendly, and more effective. Thanks to these developments, the contents of an ABAK® bottle can now be used for up to 6 months after opening. So, not only can patients benefit from greater product longevity, since a classical preserved multi-dose bottle can be used for 2 to 4 weeks, but the bottle is also easier to use.5
- 1.
Kaercher T et al. How the most common preservative affects the Meibomium lipid layer. Orbit 1999; 18(2): 89–97
- 2.
Gomes JAP et al. TFOS DEWS II Iatrogenic report, Ocul Surf 2017; 15:511–38
- 3.
https://youtu.be/7yAYhnXQoVw
- 4.
Vaede D, Baudouin C, Warnet JM, Brignole-Baudouin F. Les conservateurs des collyres : vers une prise de conscience de leur toxicité [Preservatives in eye drops: toward awareness of their toxicity]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2010 Sep;33(7):505-24. French. doi: 10.1016/j.jfo.2010.06.018. Epub 2010 Sep 15. PMID: 20832141.
- 5.
AJ Connor and PS Severn. Force requirements in topical medicines use – the squeezability factor. Macmillan 2011; 466-469