Therapeutics News

ATLANTA – It is essential that optometrists educate themselves, doctors of other disciplines and patients about conflicting drugs when treating glaucoma, according to a speaker here at SECO.

According to a new study in Ophthalmology, doctors can continue oral fluoroquinolone use without increasing the patient’s risk for retinal detachment.

Ocular Therapeutix announced that the American Medical Association Current Procedural Terminology Editorial Panel recently approved a Category III CPT code 0356T for the insertion of a drug-eluting implant, including punctal dilation and implant removal when performed, into the lacrimal canaliculus.

Two recent outbreaks of fungal endophthalmitis caused by environmental mold contamination were traced to compounded medications labeled as sterile from the same compounding pharmacy, according to results of a multistate investigation by the CDC.

In a study to assess the management of peripheral ulcerative keratitis, researchers found that associated ocular morbidity has fallen, likely due to more aggressive systemic anti-inflammatory therapy.

To the Editor:

Psychotropic (psycho = mind and tropic = change) agents are a group of compounds that cross the blood-brain barrier and act on the central nervous system to alter perception, mood and behavior. Archeological evidence suggests human use of psychoactive substances such as chewing coca leaves 8,000 years ago in Northern Peru. Coca leaves are known to contain various alkaloids, including cocaine, that alter the neurochemistry, reducing hunger and the effects of high-altitude, low-oxygen environments.

Akron announced that it has acquired the U.S. rights to three branded ophthalmic products from Merck, including those rights obtained through the acquisition of Inspire Pharmaceuticals, according to an Akorn press release.

Women who took oral contraceptives for 3 years or more were twice as likely to have glaucoma, according to a press release from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

NEW ORLEANS – In the realm of glaucoma, although generic medications provide the patient the same reliable safety and efficacy as brands, with less cost, be cautious with mail-order products, a speaker here said.