Table 3 Illustrative quotations regarding ‘issues’ with SED use.

From: Use of allogeneic serum eye drops: Does indication influence patient satisfaction?—Identifying the most satisfied patient cohort and usability of eye-dropper vial

Make thicker

A smaller vial size should in theory save everyone time and money

Can sometimes be difficult to ask for more eye drops when I’m running out - not always obvious who to contact and it seems the service is stretched for supply, although I appreciate it depends on donors. The delivery service is very good, they are always able to arrange a convenient time and deliver when they say they will. Trying to be constructive, overall, I am glad to have the serum eye drops and grateful to the donors/others involved

I was sent Mark 2 vials instead of Mark 1 for my last delivery. I am 85, have arthritis in my hands, blurred vision, and live alone. I couldn’t open them. The only way I have found is to use two pairs of pliers with difficulty and have broken several. I will let them know when I reorder. Mistakes are made but it’s made life much harder.

I only use serum eye drops on days when I am at home for an adequate amount of time to ensure that I am using the serum drops as much as possible in 24 hours. E.g. if I have a 9-5, I will not take out and defrost a vial as it feels wasteful. I would say that currently I use the serum eye drops 5/7 days of the week, multiple times a day. I do feel that there is too much product in the vial and a lot does end up wasted after the 24 hours.

Worried about infection risk

Having to keep them in the freezer is an inconvenience when out or away somewhere, although I suppose this is unavoidable due to the nature of them.

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