RNA interference is provided for inhibition of tumor necrosis factor .alpha. (TNF.alpha.) by silencing TNF.alpha. cell surface receptor TNF receptor-1 (TNFR1) mRNA expression, or by silencing TNF.alpha. converting enzyme (TACE/ADAM17) mRNA expression. Silencing such TNF.alpha. targets, in particular, is useful for treating patients having a TNF.alpha.-related condition or at risk of developing a TNF.alpha.-related condition such as the ocular conditions dry eye, allergic conjunctivitis, or ocular inflammation, or such as dermatitis, rhinitis, or asthma, for example.