In clinical trials, Zioptan lowered intraocular pressure after three and six months of use, Merck said.

WSJ: New Drug Approved to Treat Eye Condition

The drug, Zioptan, treats elevated intraocular pressure in people with a form of glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

WSJ: New Drug Approved to Treat Eye Condition

Merck also has older drugs designed to reduce intraocular pressure, Trusopt and Cosopt, which have lost market exclusivity in the U.S. and some other countries.

WSJ: New Drug Approved to Treat Eye Condition

Eleven study subjects experienced a total of 23 serious adverse events, which included erosion of the conjunctiva (the clear covering of the eyeball), dehiscence (splitting open of a wound along the surgical suture), retinal detachment, inflammation, and hypotony (low intraocular pressure).

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