The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has granted its final approval to the country’s first eye drops which can help remove reading glasses.
Developed by Mumbai-based Entod Pharmaceuticals, PresVu eye drops have been developed for presbyopia, an age-related vision condition that typically affects those above 40, causing difficulty focusing on close objects, News18 has reported.
The eyedrops will be available in pharmacies from the first week of October. Priced at Rs 350, these prescription-based drops are indicated for individuals aged 40 to 55 years with mild to intermediate presbyopia, the report said.
The DCGI green-lit PresVu on the recommendation of the Subject Expert Committee of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization.
The eye drops feature a proprietary formula that not only corrects presbyopia but also provides eye lubrication as a secondary benefit, the report said.
In an interview to News18, Entod Pharmaceuticals CEO Nikkhil K Masurkar said a single drop of the medicine begins working within 15 minutes and provides effects for up to six hours. If a second drop is administered within three to six hours of the first, the effects are extended even further.
“Till now, there was no medicine-based solution for blurry, near-vision except wearing reading glasses, contact lenses or a few surgical interventions,” Masurkar was quoted as saying by NW18.
PresVu uses advanced dynamic buffer technology to adjust to tear pH, ensuring consistent efficacy and safety during prolonged use, as these eye drops are intended for long-term application, the report said.
Presbyopia occurs as a natural part of aging, resulting in a decline in the eye's ability to focus on nearby objects. This condition can significantly impact daily life, making it challenging to perform tasks such as reading or working on computers.
Masurkar said while similar medicines exist in other countries, their formulations may not be suitable for Indian eyes, which differ significantly from Caucasian eyes. The company has made modifications to ensure the effectiveness and safety of PresVu for Indian patients.
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