Alcon launches once-daily NSAID for pain, inflammation after cataract surgery

Alcon has launched Ilevro suspension, a topical NSAID that treats pain and inflammation related to cataract surgery.

Ilevro (nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.3%) is indicated for once-daily dosing, according to an Alcon news release.

“It’s great to see a new once-a-day product approved,” OSN Cataract Surgery Section Editor John A. Hovanesian, MD, FACS, told Ocular Surgery News. “Less frequent dosing generally means gentler treatment of the ocular surface. It certainly means better compliance.”

Results of randomized clinical trials showed that 65% of patients who received Ilevro and 32% of those administered vehicle saw inflammation resolve within 14 days, the release said. In addition, pain resolved in 86% of patients on Ilevro and 46% of those given vehicle.

Ocular adverse reactions such as capsular opacity, decreased visual acuity, foreign body sensation, elevated IOP and sticky sensation were reported by 5% to 10% of patients.

Other adverse reactions, such as conjunctival edema, corneal edema, dry eye, lid irregularities, pain, photophobia and vitreous detachment, occurred in 1% to 5% of patients, the release said.

Ilevro is contraindicated in patients with proven hypersensitivity to ingredients found in NSAIDs, the release said, and it should not be administered while patients are using contact lenses.