Sandoz Launches Generic Drug Combination for Ocular Hypertension

Sandoz recently launched its generic drug combination eyedrop, brimonidine tartrate/ timolol maleate ophthalmic solution 0.2%/0.5%, to lower eye pressure in patients with ocular hypertension.  

The prescription eyedrop, an AB-related generic equivalent to AbbVie’s COMBIGAN, is immediately available to patients via retail pharmacies.  

“Fixed combinations of medicines to treat ocular hypertension can offer patients enhanced convenience, improved adherence, reduced exposure to preservatives, and cost savings,” Keren Haruvi, president of Sandoz, said in the announcement.  

“We developed this important generic eye treatment in-house to expand patient access to high-quality, more affordable eye care for millions of US patients,” Haruvi continued.  

Sandoz is the leading provider of ophthalmic medicines in the United States, with over 36 product families to treat a wide range of eye diseases, including apraclonidine HCL 0.5%, azelastine OPH solution, (6 mL), betaxolol, carteolol HCL 1%, ciprofloxacin OPH solution 0.3%, and cyclopentolate HCL 1%.  

The launch of generic brimonidine tartrate/timolol maleate combination eyedrops in the US expands the company’s portfolio.  

Ocular hypertension occurs due to poor drainage of the aqueous humor. Therefore, too much fluid enters the eye without being drained, causing high pressure to build up. An injury to the eye, certain diseases, and some medications may raise eye pressure. 

Although ocular hypertension can occur in people of all ages, it more frequently occurs in African Americans and Hispanics, people with diabetes or high blood pressure, people over the age of 40, or those with family histories of ocular hypertension or glaucoma.  

A March 2022 Global Market Insights study found that the glaucoma treatment market value is expected to reach over $7 billion by 2028.  

The report found that continuous ongoing clinical trials and several product launches will further stimulate the industry scenario, the rising patient pool of glaucoma disorders globally will proliferate market statistics, and high usage of combination therapy in glaucoma treatment will foster the overall industry landscape.  

Additionally, the growing geriatric population, especially in the Asia Pacific region, will contribute to market expansion.