Martindale Pharma launches generic therapy for glaucoma

Martindale Pharma has announced the launch of a generic version of latanoprost, a first-in-line treatment of glaucoma.

The drug, which was originally sold by Pfizer under the brand name Xalatan, is being launched in an off-label form immediately after the patent for the original product expired.

Martindale Pharma worked with Italian ophthalmic medicine specialist Tubilux Pharma to develop and manufacture generic latanoprost, which helps to reduce elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

As Xalatan, the drug recorded UK sales of around 50 million pounds in 2011.

Richard de Souza, chief executive officer of Martindale Pharma, said: "We are now selling 13 ophthalmic products in the UK to treat a range of eye conditions including conjunctivitis, glaucoma and dry, inflamed and allergic eyes."

This comes after the company revamped the packaging of its ophthalmic medicines in October 2011, in order to make it more eye-catching and easy to read.