Aspen Pharmacare is expanding the range of Eikance atropine eye drops for myopia control to include 0.05% and 0.025% concentrations.
Eikance 0.01% was launched in New Zealand in September last year. “Encouragingly, early feedback from specialists has been very positive, with strong interest in the new strengths and we expect Eikance prescription numbers to steadily rise once they're available,” said Aspen brand manager Tom Pearson.
The Eikance range is the only Medsafe registered low dose atropine eye drops available in New Zealand and is used to slow the progression of myopia in children aged 4 –14 years. “Having access to three Medsafe-registered Eikance strengths will enable eyecare professionals to tailor low-dose atropine treatment to a child’s individual myopia risk and progression rate, supporting a more personalised treatment approach,” he said.
The current recommended retail price is $59.95, Pearson said, while the final pricing is set at the discretion of each pharmacy. However, Aspen NZ is aware that a clinician-led Pharmac funding application for low dose atropine (Eikance) to slow the progression of myopia in children is under assessment, he said. “We eagerly await their decision,” he said.
Eikance drops are dispensed in sterile, preservative-free, single-dose ampoules (quality controlled and manufactured in Germany) for easy administration. Each pack contains 30 ampoules (one month’s supply). Clinicians can refer to the data sheet at www.medsafe.govt.nz for prescribing information.
