Table of Contents
FORT WORTH — In 2024 Alcon continues to be one of the world leaders in eye care innovation. Alcon’s David Bankeroff, head of OTC for U.S. Vision Care, says the major trends and challenges in the eye care market include the rising incidence of eye allergies and dry eye syndrome, which are increasingly prevalent due to pollution and extended screen time. “The choice of eye drops is critical in managing these conditions effectively. For example, different types of eye drops are formulated to tackle specific issues: Some have lubricants for dry eyes, while others contain antihistamines for allergy-induced symptoms.”
He points out that a well-informed selection can drastically improve patient outcomes. “According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, the use of appropriate eye drops can significantly alleviate symptoms of dry eye, highlighting the importance of choosing the right product based on the underlying cause and symptoms of the eye condition.”
Changes in the drug channel in eye care
Bankeroff says the drug channel is shifting towards more specialized formulations and the introduction of preservative-free options in eye care products, particularly eye drops. “This change is driven by consumer preferences for products with fewer additives and chemicals, which can exacerbate conditions like dry eyes or allergies. Alcon is responding by expanding its offerings to include these preservative-free alternatives, which cater to the growing segment of consumers with sensitive eyes or more specific health concerns.”
He explains that consumers are increasingly seeking ways to manage their health independently, including eye health, which has become a focus due to the rise in digital screen time from remote work and more indoor activities. “This shift towards self-care is evidenced by the increased demand for over-the-counter eye care products, such as lubricating drops for dry eyes and anti-allergy eye drops. Consumers are not only seeking immediate relief but are also more proactive about preventing issues related to eye health, such as screen-related strain and environmental allergies,” he explains.
Bankeroff adds that with the increasing trend of consumers taking a proactive approach to self-care, “Alcon is leveraging digital technology to empower patients and enhance their connection with eye care providers. One of the ways we approach this is through MARLO, our cutting-edge digital platform that integrates seamlessly with eye care practices and empowers doctors to put patients at the center of their care and enhances the overall patient experience. MARLO not only enables patients to stay connected with their doctors through features like appointment reminders and doctor locators, but also allows them to conveniently reorder their lenses and O-T-C products anytime, even outside regular practice hours. By bridging the gap between practices and patients, this technology ensures that patients can manage their eye health with greater ease and independence, strengthening the doctor-patient relationship and meeting modern expectations for a digital-first approach to health care. More information on MARLO can be found at meetmarlo.com.”
Impact of products like Systane and Pataday on consumers
Bankeroff says that Systane and Pataday are eye care products tailored to meet the specific needs of consumers dealing with eye discomfort. Each serves distinct roles that cater to different aspects of eye health:
• Systane is designed for people suffering from dry eye syndrome. Systane products work by mimicking natural tear composition to provide relief from dryness, irritation and burning sensations associated with dry eye. They offer long-lasting lubrication, which helps maintain moisture on the ocular surface and provides substantial comfort and protection. The effectiveness of Systane in managing symptoms of dry eye helps consumers maintain their daily activities with greater comfort and fewer interruptions due to eye discomfort.
• Pataday: As an antihistamine eye drop, Pataday targets eye allergies. It is designed to quickly relieve itchy eyes caused by allergens such as pollen, pet dander and grass. Pataday works by blocking histamine receptors in the eye, preventing the inflammatory response that causes itching and redness. This allows for fast-acting relief, making it a preferred choice for allergy sufferers seeking immediate and effective solutions for their eye allergy symptoms.
Future innovations in eye care products
He explains that while specific details about Alcon’s new products in the innovation pipeline remain confidential, the company is focused on addressing consumer needs in managing dry eye and allergy-related eye conditions. “The emphasis is on developing products that not only alleviate symptoms but also enhance overall eye health and comfort,” he notes.
He adds that Alcon remains committed to innovation. “The eye care industry is consistently driven by advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of ocular physiology. As a leader in eye care, Alcon invests in research to create more effective and faster-acting solutions for dry eye and allergy symptoms, utilizing new ingredients and delivery methods that can offer longer relief and more targeted treatments.”
In addition, he says partnering with eye care practitioners is key. “The most crucial advice for both practitioners and consumers is the emphasis on selecting the right type of eye drop for specific conditions. With an array of products available, choosing the correct drop is essential for effective treatment. Eye care professionals play a vital role in this process by guiding their patients based on symptoms and specific eye conditions.”
Bankeroff says the company’s approach centers on supporting eye care professionals and putting patients at the heart of their practice with products that seamlessly integrate into today’s lifestyles.
Alcon’s educational efforts are also key. “We are also focused on educating consumers about the importance of understanding the causes of their symptoms and selecting the right products. This education includes information on the differences between drops designed for dry eyes versus those formulated for allergies, which is crucial for effective self-care.”
For more information, visit myalcon.com/eye-care-products/ to learn more and #seebrilliantly.
