Bausch and Lomb obtains polymer rights for IOL production

Bausch & Lomb (B&L) has secured the rights to certain polymers that can be used for commercialising intraocular lenses (IOLs).

The eye health product manufacturer said it was “enthusiastic” about the licensing agreement with Santen Pharmaceutical, which will see it obtain rights to hydrophobic acrylic polymers.

Such materials hold a lot of potential for the development of IOLs, said B&L corporate vice-president and chief technology officer Dr John Sheets Jr.

“We are committed to aggressively creating innovative, in-demand products through both industry partnerships and our considerable internal capabilities,” he explained, after remarking on the possible benefits of combining the polymers with its technology portfolio.

Vice-president of B&L’s global surgical commercial operations Tom Frinzi also commented on the development, stating it will open up more of the IOL marketplace for the group.

Meanwhile, the company also announced this week that it is to work with Pfizer on a co-promotion agreement focused on prescription ophthalmic drugs.