Azarga approved by EMEA

Azarga (brinzolamide 10 mg/ml and timolol 5 mg/ml fixed combination) has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) for decreasing intraocular pressure (IOP) in adult patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension after failure of monotherapy, according to an announcement from Alcon, Azarga's manufacturer.

A clinical trial has demonstrated that Azarga is as safe as, but more effective than, either of its constituent components, brinzolamide and timolol. A separate study showed that Azarga is as safe as Cosopt (timolol/dorzolamide fixed combination; Merck), but is better tolerated and more comfortable for patients.

Azarga will be available in Europe from early next year.