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FDA approves Bausch + Lomb’s Lumify for ocular redness
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The FDA approved Bausch + Lomb’s Lumify as the first over-the-counter eye drop developed with low-dose brimonidine tartrate for the treatment of ocular redness.
Brimonidine was first approved by the FDA in 1996 for the reduction of IOP in glaucoma patients, according to a press release from Valeant Pharmaceuticals.
“Lumify is the first and only OTC eye drop with low-dose brimonidine, which has been clinically proven to be safe and effective since its initial approval as a prescription medication in 1996,” Joseph C. Papa, chairman and CEO of Valeant, said in the release.
Lumify (brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution 0.025%) is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2018.
Frequent use of non-selective redness-relieving eye drops that constrict blood vessels in the eye may cause patients to develop a tolerance or loss of effectiveness. Low-dose brimonidine can lower this risk by selectively constricting veins in the eyes and increasing the availability of oxygen to the surrounding eye tissues, the release said.
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Arthur A. Medina Jr. , OD
I am excited that patients can now treat ocular redness with a safe and effective pharmaceutical.
As eye care providers, we understand the significance of patients complaining about eye redness. For decades, our profession has had no effective or reliable treatment options. Patients would treat their own symptoms with over-the-counter products, regardless of the side-effect warnings.
With the approval of Lumify, we finally have innovative pharmacological technology that uses low-dose brimonidine that selectively constricts only veins and enhances oxygen to the surrounding tissue. Patients now have a solution that increases efficiency and reduces rebounding.
Lee Nordan MD, an industry leader who passed away 2 years prior to this approval, was the guiding force in Lumify’s development. Eight years ago, he organized key opinion leaders to initiate clinical trials.
Within a minute of application, Lumify provides long-lasting porcelain white eyes. Studies show these effects offer a more youthful, healthy, intellectual and attractive appearance.
Compared to other clinical trials including surgical, contact lens and pharmacological treatments that I have participated in, Lumify overwhelmingly exceeded my patient’s expectations. To date, they continue to request approval of Lumify due to the tremendous results and everyday benefits. With expert counsel offered by our profession, this treatment will be a game-changer for millions.
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