Santen preservative free drug approved for Aptar Pharma device

Drug delivery systems provider Aptar Pharma has announced its preservative-free multidose Ophthalmic Squeeze Dispenser has been approved for a drug developed for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

In an effort to improve patient safety, Aptar has worked together with pharmaceutical company Santen so it can deliver its prescription drug Taflotan/Saflutan.

The Squeeze dispenser is a delivery system for eye disease treatment formulations that is designed to improve patient safety through more accurate dosing and maintained product integrity.

The system uses preservative free formulations, an area which Santen is specialising in to help contribute to the well-being of patients.

Chemical preservatives are often used in eye drops to ensure sterility of the drops in multidose bottles. When used in short-term treatments, they are mostly well-tolerated but have been shown to cause signs and symptoms of irritation. Since glaucoma patients use eye drops on a regular basis, preservative free formulations are preferred.

"We are delighted to launch preservative-free multi-dose formulations of these glaucoma therapies in Europe,” said Luis Iglesias, corporate officer and head of EMEA, Santen. “By providing highly effective and well-tolerated, preservative-free medicines, with the option for multi-dose bottles, we hope to empower patients in their daily lives and improve the management of their condition.”