A Mumbai-based pharmaceutical company has launched India’s first pilocarpine hydrochloride eye drop to treat presbyopia. The eye drop received approval from the Drugs Controller General of India last month. In clinical trials conducted on 250 patients with mild-to-intermediate presbyopia, pilocarpine eye drops temporarily resolved vision problems. According to the company, the eye drops start working within 15 minutes, and their effects last about six hours. However, the optimal results of the eye drops may be seen after 15 days of use.
The US FDA approved a similar drug in the USA in 2022. However, the Indian formulation is designed explicitly with adjuvants to suit better the higher pigment content in the irises of Indians. Pilocarpine eye drops will be available in pharmacies nationwide starting in October at Rs. 345. The manufacturer strongly suggested using these eye drops only…
