Say bye-bye to reading glasses! Mumbai drug-maker to soon introduce eye drops to treat presbyopia in India

India is on the brink of a significant medical innovation with the upcoming launch of PresVu eye drops, a groundbreaking treatment aimed at reducing dependency on reading glasses. Developed by Mumbai-based Entod Pharmaceuticals, PresVu has recently received approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and is scheduled to hit the market in early October 2024.

What is PresVu?

PresVu eye drops are designed to treat presbyopia, a common age-related condition that affects the eye's ability to focus on nearby objects. This condition, which typically begins in the early 40s, leads to a gradual decline in near vision, making reading glasses a necessity for millions. As per estimates, nearly one third of Indian adults suffer from the condition. PresVu offers a novel solution, aiming to restore visual independence to those suffering from mild to moderate presbyopia.

How does it work?

The drug contains pilocarpine hydrochloride — a plant-derived compound that has been used for decades to treat various eye conditions and dry mouth. The drops are intended for daily use, with effects lasting several hours, allowing users to perform tasks like reading without the need for glasses. As per the company, the effects of the drops will be apparent within 15 minutes, but complete benefits are only apparent after 15 days of use.

The treatment has been thoroughly tested in clinical trials across India and has shown promising results in improving near vision.

Market impact and accessibility

The introduction of PresVu is expected to make a significant impact in India, where the prevalence of presbyopia is rising. As per media sources, each vial will be priced at Rs 345, making it an affordable alternative to reading glasses. Each vial is designed to last about a month, making it a cost-effective solution for long-term use.

Entod Pharmaceuticals has ambitious plans for PresVu, targeting not just the Indian market but also emerging markets in Africa and Southeast Asia. The company sees this as a step towards becoming a global innovator in ophthalmology, with future plans to out-licence products in the US market.

(Editor's note: PresVu eye-drops have since been suspended by the DCGI for making exaggerated marketing claims related to the product)