NovaTears, a new treatment for evaporative dry eye disease (DED) has been launched in New Zealand and Australia.

NovaTears manufacturer, German speciality pharma company Novaliq, described the new product as “the first and only water-free topical eye drop treatment specifically developed to treat patients with DED. (It) immediately stabilises the lipid layer without causing vision blurring. Clinically validated in four clinical trials… showed that NovaTears is safe and efficacious for treating the signs and symptoms of DED and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).”

NovaTears will be distributed by Kiwi company AFT Pharmaceuticals in Australasia under an exclusive licensing arrangement.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer patients a novel ophthalmic treatment that addresses signs and symptoms of evaporative DED and MGD,” said Hartley Atkinson, AFT CEO. “NovaTears is a first-in-class, water-free and preservative-free treatment that strengthens the lipid layer of the tear film thereby preventing evaporation. It is a welcome addition to our eye care line, one that will provide superior benefits to patients.”