On August 19, 2024, Visiox Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Tarrytown, NY, USA) announced a definitive merger agreement with Ocuvex Therapeutics, Inc. (New Hyde Park, NY, USA), an early-stage ophthalmic biotech company, in a strategic move to bolster its position in the ophthalmic market. The merger brings together two companies with complementary strengths, aiming to create a leading force in the eye care industry.
Ocuvex, a privately held company focused on developing and commercializing novel therapies for glaucoma and other eye disorders, boasts a robust pipeline of ophthalmic medicines poised for market entry. The combination of Visiox’s innovative products with Ocuvex’s pipeline is expected to accelerate the development and commercialization of these promising therapeutics.
Visiox brings a strong portfolio of ophthalmic products to the table. Its flagship product, Omlonti® (omidenepag isopropyl ophthalmic solution), is an FDA-approved selective prostaglandin E2 receptor agonist indicated for reducing intraocular pressure in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension patients.
The company is also gearing up to launch two key treatments in 2025: PDP-716 (brimonidine) 0.35%, a once-daily solution for ocular hypertension and glaucoma treatment featuring TearAct™, and SDN-037 (difluprednate) 0.04%, a twice-daily topical corticosteroid for post-surgical inflammation that leverages Tight Junction Modulation™. Notably, SDN-037 is patent-protected until at least 2036.
“The combination of Visiox and Ocuvex makes for a perfect match,” said Ryan S. Bleeks, Chief Executive Officer of Visiox, in a news release. “We have reached significant milestones with our products and Ocuvex is in a great position to take these advancements forward and bring them to market faster and emerge as a future leader in eye care.”
The combined entity will operate under the Ocuvex name, leveraging Visiox’s commitment to collaboration with eye care professionals. The merger is expected to create significant opportunities for growth and innovation in the ophthalmic market.
While financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, the merger is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. This strategic alliance marks a significant step forward for both companies and holds promise for the future of ophthalmic care.
