The FDA Dermatologic and Ophthalmic Drugs Advisory Committee (DODAC) unanimously recommended that the FDA approve Latisse (bimatoprost solution 0.03%, Allergan) as a treatment for hypotrichosis (reduced amount of hair) of the eyelashes. The amount of bimatoprost in Latisse is the same as in the drug from which it originated, Lumigan (bimatoprost solution 0.03%, Allergan). Latisse is applied to base of the eyelash with a sterile, single-use-per-eye disposable applicator. Allergan expects to launch Latisse in the first quarter of 2009.

 

DODAC also unanimously recommended approval of Bausch & Lombs new fluoroquinolone Optura (besifloxacin ophthalmic suspension 0.6%), for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. The formulation includes InSite Visions DuraSite, a biodegradable polymer that can maintain therapeutic doses of a drug on the ocular surface for up to six hours. Optura is indicated for t.i.d. administration. Bausch & Lomb aims to launch the drug in 2009.

U.S. News & World Report has again named optometry as one of the years top careers. The magazines criteria were jobs with the best outlook in this recessionary economy (and beyond), the highest rates of job satisfaction, the least difficult training necessary, the most prestige, and the highest pay. When ranked by job market outlook, optometry comes in eighth. When ranked by pay, optometry comes in third.