Entod Pharmaceuticals Gains Approval for India's First Presbyopia Eye Drops

Entod Pharmaceuticals has received approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to market its new eye drops for the treatment of presbyopia, a common age-related vision condition. The Mumbai-based pharmaceutical company plans to introduce PresVu, India's first eye drops designed to reduce dependence on reading glasses for individuals with presbyopia, in the first week of October.

This final approval follows an earlier recommendation by the Subject Expert Committee (SEC) of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

"This DCGI approval is a significant milestone in our mission to revolutionize eye care in India," said Nikkhil K Masurkar, CEO of Entod Pharmaceuticals. "PresVu is not just another product; it’s a solution that will enhance the quality of life for millions by providing greater visual independence."

Globally, presbyopia affects an estimated 1.09-1.8 billion people, typically those over the age of 40. The condition results from the natural aging process, where the eye’s ability to focus diminishes, making it difficult to see objects up close.

Discussing the company’s future plans, Masurkar highlighted their focus on meeting domestic demand and expanding into emerging markets such as Africa and Southeast Asia. He also emphasized Entod’s strategy to innovate in India before out-licensing their products to the US market, where the company currently has no presence.

"The US market is flooded with low-cost generics, but we aim to introduce something innovative and become a global leader before out-licensing to other countries," Masurkar said. He also noted the company's commitment to supplying affordable medicines to regions where access is limited, particularly in Africa.

Entod Pharmaceuticals, which manufactures its products in Maharashtra, currently specializes in three therapeutic areas: ENT, ophthalmology, and dermatology. Masurkar also hinted at a potential future expansion into the mental health segment, a field he believes holds significant promise in India.

"If we were to enter a new segment, it would likely be in mental health, which I believe has immense potential in India," Masurkar added.