FISONS' OPTICROM 4% SOLUTION FOR OCCULAR ALLERGIES

FISONS' OPTICROM 4% SOLUTION FOR OCCULAR ALLERGIES is the company's latest entry into its cromolyn sodium product line. On Oct. 10, the firm announced approval of the product for occular allergies. According to the FDA-approved labeling, Opticrom is "indicated in the treatment of certain allergic occular disorders referred to by the terms vernal keratoconjunctivitis, vernal conjunctivitis, giant papillary conjunctivitis, vernal keratitis, and allergic keratoconjunctivitis. "The etiologic factors are unknown, but common airborne allergens and contact lenses have been implicated." The labeling adds that "symptomatic response to therapy (decreased itching, tearing, redness, and discharge) is usually evident within a few days, but longer treatment for up to six weeks is sometimes required." Once symptomatic improvement has been established, therapy should be continued for as long as needed to sustain improvement." The indication notes that if required corticosteroids may be used concomitantly. The cromolyn sodium eye drops are supplied as 10 ml bottles, the company noted. The drug is priced to whslrs.'s at $8 for a 10 ml bottle. Opticrom joins Fisons' cromolyn sodium products Intal, an inhalant for bronchialasthma and Nasalcrom, a nasal spray for the prevention and treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms.