Allergan seeks approval for tear-producing medicine

Allergan has applied for a prior approval supplement (PAS) for Restatsis -- a medication to help patients who suffer from chronic eye dryness increase the production of tears -- according to a Nov. 11 announcement.

The multi-dose medicine is free of preservatives and should work in patients who have ocular inflammation from Chronic Dry Eye disease.

"With more than 60 years in developing innovative eye treatments, Allergan is committed to helping those suffering from chronic dry eye disease and understand there is a need for innovative new delivery technologies for these patients," Allergan executive vice president and president Global Brands Research and Development  David Nicholson said. "We are pleased with the submission of this PAS as it marks an important step forward for this delivery technology."

Chronic dry eye happens to a significant portion of the population. It occurs when the tear ducts do not provide enough tears to lubricate the eye. Tears are responsible for clear vision and healthy eyes.

The Dublin, Ireland-based company hopes to have their eye medicine approved soon.