- Alcon announced that Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops in a multi-dose bottle are now available online and in U.S. retail outlets. The bottle features nano-droplet technology and a closing tip system that uses PureFlow technology, says Alcon.
- Allergan announced that the Phase 3 VIRGO trial, evaluating the safety and efficacy of investigational twice-daily administration of VUITY (pilocarpine HCl ophthalmic solution) 1.25% in presbyopic adults met its primary efficacy endpoint, improving near vision without compromising distance vision at Hour 9 (3 hours after the second drop) on Day 14. VUITY was approved by the FDA in Oct. 2021 for once-daily use to treat age-related blurry near vision in adults.
- Bausch + Lomb and Clearside Biomedical launched Xipere, an FDA-approved treatment for macular edema associated with uveitis. Triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension (Xipere) is delivered via suprachoroidal injection with Clearside’s SCS Microinjector.
- Bruder announced two new in-office package options for its moist heat eye compress. Specifically, a new box and counter display offer an attractive, small-footprint way to showcase the Bruder Eye Compress in high-traffic, point-of sale locations throughout the office, the company says. The compress aids in clearing oil glands, enabling natural oils to flow back onto the eye to relieve discomfort, Bruder says.
- Compulink and Promptly launched a suite of mobile-friendly patient engagement tools for Compulink’s Advantage SMART Practice EHR solution. Features include smart online scheduling; automated waitlist; patient kiosk; mobile check-in; text-to-pay; patient cost estimator; and fully automated vision insurance eligibility, according to the companies. The EHR is 2015 ONC Certified for MIPS.
- Eyefinity is offering practices that participate in the VSP Global Premier Program up to $1,500 off on onboarding fees — for up to three doctors — for any new subscription to Eyefinity Practice Management and/or Eyefinity EHR platforms. The deal runs through Dec. 31, 2022. The Premier Program offers members benefits, including the ability to pull multiple patient eligibilities and authorizations at one time, an optimized check-out experience, and a dedicated support team.
- EyeMedsNow.com , a free service to help quickly identify medications using a variety of search criteria, announced a new search process for OTC tears. In addition to searching via the site’s dropdown lists and free text box, users can search for OTC tears by manufacturer, active ingredient(s), viscosities, preservative type, and how they are supplied. Also new is EyeMedsNow monthly email newsletter, edited by Megan Taylor, OD, FAAO, which is sent to all doctors who register for free on the site. The newsletter discusses new FDA ophthalmic drug approvals, among other related topics.
- Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association is accepting abstracts from members and non-members for consideration for its 2022 General Conference, scheduled for Sept. 8 to Sept. 11, 2022, in Columbus, Ohio. Selected posters will be displayed at the General Conference and published in Optometry & Visual Performance. The deadline to submit an abstract is July 15, 2022. Visit https://bit.ly/36tKOHS on how to submit an abstract and for poster presentation guidelines.
- Ophthalmic Resources Partners announced the availability of SleepTite/SleepRite, a product designed to help patients who have nighttime eyelid closure issues, for purchase by doctor offices and their patients. The product can be ordered at eyesleeptite.com .
- SIFI S.p.A. announced that the FDA approved the company’s Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) application for its investigational anti-infective polymer polihexanide for the treatment of fungal keratitis. Polihexanide acts via a dual mechanism involving disruption of microorganism cell membranes and selective condensation and/or disruption of microorganism chromosomes by DNA binding. Polihexanide also has ODD for acanthamoeba keratitis granted by the FDA and the European Medicines Agency.
- Transitions Optical’s 25th Transitions Academy will now take place June 1 to June 4, 2022, at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla. This year’s Academy program will include presentations, guest speakers and workshops, and the winners of the 2021 Transitions Innovations Awards will be honored. Visit TransitionsAcademy.com .
- Xenon-VR Inc. announced it is registered with the FDA. The company’s product, the Xenon-1, is a virtual reality mobile device that performs multiple ophthalmic exams, employing eye-tracking software, artificial intelligence, and a virtual reality platform with retinal display. OM
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LEADING OFF: Also Notable
Optometric Management
May 1, 2022
Vol 57, Issue May 2022
Page(s): 14, 63