Sun Pharma launches dry eye treatment CEQUA in Canada

Mumbai: Sun Pharma Canada Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited today announced the launch of CEQUA, a new treatment for Canadians living with dry eye disease.

CEQUA (cyclosporine ophthalmic solution 0.09% w/v), a calcineurin inhibitor immunomodulator, is the first dry eye treatment available in Canada that is delivered with nanomicellar (NCELL) technology, which improves the bioavailability and physicochemical stability of cyclosporine to increase ocular tissue penetration.

"We are excited to introduce CEQUA as a new treatment option for the more than six million Canadians living with dry eye disease," said Abhay Gandhi, CEO North America, Sun Pharma. "This launch is an important milestone for Sun Pharma as we expand our ophthalmics portfolio into Canada and it demonstrates our commitment to providing innovative medicines to support patient and physician choice."

In addition to its previous prevalence amongst Canadians, a recent report from Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has shown that rates of dry eye disease are on the rise due to an increase in mask wearing, which can lead to dry spots on the ocular surface.

"We are delighted to see a new product now available to the many Canadians suffering from keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eye disease," said W. Bruce Jackson, MD, former Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, McGill University and University of Ottawa. "CEQUA, with its nanomicellar technology and increased strength of cyclosporine, can be an important addition to our treatment options as eye care professionals strive for more personalized treatment."

Dry eye disease (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a disease affecting millions of patients around the world. According to a recent study, more than six million Canadian adults may have dry eye disease.

Dry eye disease, as defined by the National Eye Institute (NEI, a division of the U.S. National Institutes of Health [NIH]), occurs when the quantity and/or quality of tears fails to keep the surface of the eye properly lubricated. The disease causes a scratchy sensation or a feeling that something is in the eye. Other symptoms include stinging or burning, episodes of excess tearing following periods of stress, discharge, pain, and redness in the eye. The risk of developing dry eye increases with advancing age and is more common in women than in men.