Eye on Five – May Edition

Alcon Launches Multifocal Toric IOL at ASCRS

Alcon seized the platform of ASCRS 2017 to launch its AcrySof IQ ReSTOR +2.5 multifocal toric intraocular lens with ActiveFocus design. The IOL addresses both astigmatism and presbyopia at the time of cataract surgery.

Shire Licenses Parion’s Dry Eye Agent

Shire plc gained exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialize P-321, Parion Sciences’ investigational epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) inhibitor for the potential treatment of dry eye disease. P-321 inhibits ENaC, which is thought to block the absorption of tears, and helps hydrate the ocular surface. The agreement includes a clause for Parion to co-fund the development program.  

Roclatan Results Boost Aerie Stock

Aerie Pharmaceuticals released successful top-line Phase III results of its fixed-dose glaucoma candidate Roclatan, seeing its stock price jump about 38%. Aerie followed that up with a well-timed public stock offering that raised $125 million. Aerie chairman and CEO Vicente Anido Jr., PhD, says he expects to file an NDA for Roclatan by July 2018. Meanwhile, Aerie also received word that the FDA accepted its NDA for Rhopressa, one of the key compounds in Roclatan.

Top-line Results Confirm First Phase III for Kala’s KPI-121

Kala Pharmaceuticals disclosed positive top-line results from Phase III trial of KPI-121 1% for inflammation and pain after cataract surgery. KPI-121 1% dosed twice-a-day for two weeks achieved statistically significant resolution of anterior chamber cells and complete resolution of ocular pain eight days after cataract surgery versus placebo. KPI-121 1% was well tolerated with no significant treatment-related safety findings observed during the trial. The results follow on Kala’s first Phase III trial for KPI-121 1% post-cataract surgery that also achieved statistical significance for both primary endpoints with twice-a-day dosing.

Dr. Stephen Lane Joins Alcon as CMO

Stephen Lane, MD, a world-renowned cataract and refractive surgeon, is joining Alcon as chief medical officer and global head franchise clinical strategy. Dr. Lane will lead the integration of scientific, clinical, and commercial priorities across Alcon’s surgical and vision care franchises, and support the generation of surgical and vision care clinical evidence. He will also represent Alcon to academic, scientific, and industry communities, and government agencies. Dr. Lane starts June 1.