Millions of people over 40 rely on reading glasses in India due to presbyopia, a common condition that affects near vision as we age. ENTOD Pharmaceuticals’ recently launched PresVu eye drops aimed to reduce reliance on reading glasses, but the product is now under serious scrutiny. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) suspended its licence due to safety concerns, which has left many questioning the product’s effectiveness and long-term viability.
The suspension was triggered after the CDSCO found issues with the company’s marketing claims, which touted PresVu as a breakthrough solution for presbyopia. ENTOD had promoted the drops as a DCGI-approved product, but authorities deemed these statements misleading. As investigations continue, medical professionals call for a reassessment of the product’s safety and efficacy, especially compared to traditional methods like corrective glasses.
Understanding PresVu: How does it work?
The active ingredient in PresVu is pilocarpine, a well-established drug used in glaucoma treatment for over 75 years. Pilocarpine works by constricting the pupil, creating a pinhole effect that improves near vision for a limited time. While this mechanism can temporarily relieve individuals struggling to read without glasses, it is far from a permanent fix. I must emphasise that corrective glasses remain the most reliable and lasting solution for managing presbyopia. PresVu is just a temporary and imperfect solution.
Side effects and limited research
Despite ENTOD’s efforts to reduce the concentration of pilocarpine to minimise side effects, the product is not without risks. PresVu’s effects last only 5-6 hours and must be administered twice daily, raising concerns about its practicality. Side effects can range from mild discomforts, such as headaches and eye irritation, to more severe complications like pupil strain. Additionally, it can potentially impact eye surgeries, such as cataracts and glaucoma procedures.
Is PresVu suitable for OTC sale?
Due to its potential risks and the absence of extensive long-term data, PresVu cannot be sold as an over-the-counter (OTC) product. It should only be used under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. Prescription use ensures that patients are properly monitored for any adverse reactions and allows doctors to evaluate whether the drops are appropriate for individual patients.
Why glasses remain the better option
Corrective glasses remain the safest and most dependable solution for managing presbyopia. Unlike PresVu, they provide immediate and lasting vision correction without the risk of side effects. Glasses are cost-effective, hassle-free, and can be worn long-term, making them a more practical choice compared to a temporary fix like PresVu.
Final thoughts: A temporary option with significant caveats
While PresVu may provide short-term benefits for certain individuals, it is not the revolutionary treatment it has been portrayed as. The drug’s temporary efficacy, potential side effects, and ethical concerns make it a less-than-ideal solution. Corrective glasses, on the other hand, remain a stable and long-lasting option for those seeking a reliable fix for presbyopia. As more data emerges, particularly regarding its use in Indian patients, doctors and patients should proceed cautiously.