Novagali Pharma releases data on BAK-free latanoprost

Novagali Pharma announced the first results from a prostaglandin analogue manufactured without benzalkonium chloride.

Preclinical testing of the novel latanoprost agent Nova21027 showed that the "cationic emulsion of latanoprost was well tolerated and did not induce any ocular surface damages upon stress conditions," the company said in a release.

There has been suggestion that benzalkonium chloride (BAK) may be harmful to the eye, including inducing redness or endothelial erosion. Previous studies have reported increased adverse effects associated with the commonly used preservative, and the effect may be dose-dependent.

According to the release, Nova21027 uses a proprietary and novel cationic emulsion technology, resulting in a product that has a "safer profile than BAK-containing marketed products for glaucoma."

Novagali will release additional data about Nova21027 at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology meeting in May.