Aerie Pharmaceuticals announced the launch of Rhopressa (netarsudil ophthalmic solution) 0.02%, a novel eye drop indicated for lowering elevated intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Rhopressa is a rho kinase inhibitor that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2017. The approval was based on results from 3 randomized trials which found that Rhopressa was associated with a reduction in intraocular pressure of up to 5mmHg.

Additionally, the results showed that for those with a baseline intraocular pressure <25mmHg, reductions were similar between groups treated with Rhopressa 0.02% dosed once daily and those treated with timolol 0.5% dosed twice daily.

Rhopressa ophthalmic solution contains 0.2mg/mL of netarsudil and is available as a 2.5mL fill in a 4mL container.

“Formulary contracts for commercial insurance coverage in 2018 and Medicare Part D program coverage beginning in 2019 are in the final stages of being executed,” said Vicente Anido, Jr., PhD, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “In addition, through the availability of a co-pay savings card program, all patients covered by commercial insurance will have immediate access to Rhopressa. Aerie has also proactively engaged the major e-prescribing platforms to ensure physicians are able to prescribe Rhopressa electronically for their patients.”