Dec. 27, 2021

An eyedrop that can eliminate the need for reading glasses or bifocals has been approved for patients — and a Sioux Falls eye surgeon played an integral role in the process.

The FDA has approved the prescription eyedrop Vuity, a new treatment option for presbyopia, or age-related blurry near vision resulting in the need for reading glasses or bifocals.

It’s one of the most common eye conditions, beginning for nearly half of all Americans after age 40.

Dr. Vance Thompson of Vance Thompson Vision played an integral role in bringing the drop to market, serving as principal investigator in the FDA-monitored trial that led to approval for patients.

“This whole project has fascinated me from the beginning,” Thompson said in a statement.

“What blew me away is knowing that pilocarpine, which is a central component of Vuity drops, was first invented in the late 1800s and used to treat glaucoma for over 100 years. I think it’s amazing that Allergan researched taking a traditional treatment with a high safety profile and using it for something new to benefit millions of patients. I am so honored that our team at Vance Thompson Vision had something to do with introducing this to the world.”

Vuity works in as early as 15 minutes and lasts up to six hours to improve near and intermediate vision without impacting distance vision. Specifically designed for presbyopia, Vuity uses the eye’s own ability to reduce pupil size, creating a pinhole effect with the patient’s own pupil to increase depth of focus and help people to not need reading glasses. It’s the first and only FDA-approved eyedrop for presbyopia treatment.

“Working with our patients during the clinical trial, I was surprised how easy the drop regimen was and how quickly patients noticed improvement in their near vision, “said Dr. Jason Schmit of Vance Thompson Vision. “This treatment is going to help so many patients experience better near vision without the need for contact lenses or reading glasses.”