Alcon Introduces New Systane(R) BALANCE Lubricant Eye Drops For Dry Eye Patients With Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL), the world's leader in eye care, announced the launch of Systane(R) BALANCE Lubricant Eye Drops, the newest lubricant eye drop in the Systane(R) family of products. Patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) are unable to adequately prevent the evaporation of tears, resulting in dry eye symptoms. Systane(R) BALANCE is a scientifically engineered product that contains HP Guar, borate, sorbitol, propylene glycol and Alcon's exclusive LipiTech(TM) System, a unique emulsion technology of mineral oil and an anionic phospholipid. Systane(R) BALANCE is designed to restore the lipid layer and the natural tear film to allow for relief of dry eye symptoms.

"We are dedicated to applying scientific rigor to discover treatments for chronic conditions such as dry eye. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction is a significant cause of dry eye symptoms and now patients who suffer from dry eye associated with MGD can use Systane(R) BALANCE to restore their lipid layer, re-establish their natural tear film and maintain their tear film stability," said Sabri Markabi, M.D., Alcon's chief medical officer and senior vice president of Research and Development.

MGD is the most common cause of evaporative dry eye with an estimated 50 percent of dry eye patients experiencing MGD. Physicians observed an association between the use of Systane(R) BALANCE and better tear film stabilization as well as an improvement in the thickening of the lipid layer, which are desirable characteristics in treating dry eye. Unlike some other drops where blurring may be a concern, patients reported minimal blur after instilling drops of Systane(R) BALANCE.

Systane(R) BALANCE is widely available without prescription at major retailers in the United States and will become available in Latin America later this year.

About Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry Eye Syndrome is a condition caused by changes in the quantity or quality of tears, causing eyes to feel dry and irritated. Tears are composed of three main layers that work together to keep eyes comfortable and protected. If anything affects the balance of these elements, tears will dissipate too quickly, causing uncomfortable dry spots. Dry Eye Syndrome, which affects both women and men, often goes undiagnosed and if left untreated, can lead to long-term complications. There is no cure for Dry Eye Syndrome, but there are many treatment options available to help relieve symptoms.

About Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is when meibomian glands in eye lids do not secrete adequate amounts of lipid (oils) to seal the aqueous tears and prevent evaporation, causing tear film instability.

About SYSTANE(R) Family of Products

Systane(R) Lubricant Eye Drops have been clinically proven to reduce the symptoms of dry eye, providing immediate, long-lasting protection and comfort. The Systane(R) brand is the number one selling dry eye franchise in artificial tear solutions and its proven performance has led to a #1 doctor recommended brand. Systane(R) BALANCE Lubricant Eye Drops is indicated for the temporary relief of burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye. Other products in the Systane(R) family include Systane(R) Preservative-Free formula, Systane(R) ULTRA Lubricant Eye Drops, Systane(R) ULTRA Preservative-Free formula, Systane(R) Nighttime Ointment and Systane(R) Contacts Lubricant Eye Drops. While Systane(R) ULTRA is designed for dry eye with aqueous deficient patients, Systane(R) BALANCE Lubricant Eye Drops is designed specifically for dry eye patients associated with MGD.

Source:
Alcon, Inc.
http://www.blindmassageintl.com/