The ocular allergy mainstay Alaway (ketotifen fumarate 0.035%) from Bausch + Lomb will come in a preservative-free option next spring, according to a press release from the company. The new formulation was recently approved by the FDA.

B+L says this will be the first preservative-free over-the-counter antihistamine on the market, noting that preservatives commonly used in eye drops can cause allergic reactions in some people that can lead to redness, irritation, itching or tearing.

According to the company, Alaway Preservative Free relieves ocular itching—a symptom that affects approximately 80% of people with allergies—due to pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair and dander. The press release states that the drug works within minutes and can provide up to 12 hours of relief with one dose.

For more information, visit www.bauschhealth.com.