High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2025
Files
Course Code
HSC
Course Number
4930
Faculty/Instructor
Professor Steven Burroughs
Faculty/Instructor Email
Steven.Burroughs@ucf.edu
Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement
This project evaluated the clinical efficacy of Cequa™ (Cyclosporine 0.09%) in individuals with Dry Eye Disease (DED) who showed minimal improvement with lower-dose cyclosporine (0.05%). The study explored real-world pharmaceutical applications, focusing on clinical trial design, patient-centered outcomes, and treatment limitations. A review of peer-reviewed literature demonstrated that Cequa 0.09% produced statistically significant improvements in both corneal health and symptom reduction when compared to Restasis® and Lifitegrast (Xiidra®).
The project was developed within the framework of a Health Sciences Seminar course and adhered to a structured timeline with instructor feedback. Emphasis was placed on scientific analysis, effective communication, and teamwork. Additionally, the project examined the importance of diversity in clinical trials and proposed strategies for more inclusive study designs in the future.
By bridging academic concepts with practical clinical research, this project contributed to a deeper understanding of how treatments move from research into real-world patient care. It highlights the value of evidence-based solutions and the importance of making therapies accessible and effective for diverse patient populations.
Keywords
Dry Eye Disease, Cyclosporine 0.09% (Cequa™), Ophthalmology, Clinical Trials, Patient-Centered Research, Integrative Learning Experience
Recommended Citation
Nguyen, Lillian; Canales, Linda; and Kelly, Caitlyn, "Effect of Cequa™ in Subjects With Dry Eye Disease" (2025). High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2025. 39.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hip-2025spring/39
