FDA approves drop for itchy eyes due to allergies
The FDA has approved an over-the-counter preservative-free eye drop for itchy eyes due to certain eye allergies, according to a Bausch Health press release.
Alaway preservative free (ketotifen fumarate) ophthalmic solution 0.035% antihistamine eye drops are approved to relieve itchy eyes caused by pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair and dander.
“We’re excited to add Alaway preservative free — the first and only OTC preservative-free formulation eye drop of its kind — to our existing Bausch + Lomb Consumer Health Care portfolio. Alaway preservative free can provide up to 12 hours of relief for people suffering from itchy eyes due to certain eye allergies,” Joe Gordon, U.S. president, Bausch + Lomb, said in the release.
Bausch Health acquired the U.S. rights to the drop from Eton Pharmaceuticals in February 2019. In July 2019, the FDA rejected the drop without citing concerns about clinical data.
Bausch + Lomb expects the drop will be available for purchase by spring 2021.
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