Study protocol
EYE
After initial screening, a total of 36 women were enrolled and categorized into two groups using block randomization. The random number table was generated by an independent statistician using Excel (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, USA). Eye drops were prepared by an independent pharmacist, and both participants and study investigators were blinded to the eye drops administered. AS and PRP eye drops were each administered to 18 patients (36 eyes). The sample size was calculated based on the rule of thumb for a pilot study suggested by JuliousAll patients used their allocated eye drops (AS or PRP) for 12 weeks at a dosage of one drop per eye six times daily in both eyes with an interval of 2 h between drops. Administration of 1–2 drops of artificial tears (sodium hyaluronate 0.1%) was allowed if needed. Participants were followed up at 4 and 12 weeks.