​Johnson & Johnson have announced FDA approval of ACUVUE Abiliti Overnight Therapeutic Lenses for managing myopia.

Myopia, also known as near-sightedness, is a common vision condition, but it is a chronic and progressive disease. In the UK, it is estimated that 1 in 3 people are affected by the condition. In childhood, myopia can occur between the ages of 6 – 13 and worsen in teenage years.

Experts suggest that children under 12 years old, with myopia, are most at risk of developing high myopia. The overnight lenses aim to temporarily reshape the cornea to help manage the disease, particularly in children. “We look forward to supporting parents and eye care professionals in their care of children with comprehensive resources, starting with Abiliti Overnight Therapeutic Lenses, and continuing with additional products and services to address the progression of myopia.” Xiao-Yu Song, MD, PhD, Global Head of Research & Development, Johnson & Johnson Vision

J&J join mark'ennovy and CooperVision who also offer contact lenses for treating Myopia.

Novartis have announced the positive 1-year results from their Phase 3 studies, which are evaluating the efficacy and safety of Beovu in diabetic macular edema (DME). This is following possible safety concerns over the risk of side effects including retinal vasculitis, retinal vascular occlusion, blurred vision and cataracts.

Experts estimate that approximately 7.7 million Americans have diabetic retinopathy and of those, about 750,000 also have DME. The studies are a clear step forward “with the data demonstrating vision gains, fluid resolution and the potential for less frequent injections for eligible patients, we are one step closer to providing DME patients with a potential new treatment option.” J. Jill Hopkins Global Development Unit Head, Ophthalmology, Novartis Pharmaceuticals.