FDA Approves New Eye Drop for Presbyopia

Adults over age 45 with presbyopia have a new prescription option for managing age-related near-vision loss.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Alzheimer’s

Isometric editorial illustration featuring a glass dropper vial and a large, simplified iris geometric shape, representing ocular medical treatment. — The FDA has approved RYZUMVI, a phentolamine ophthalmic solution, as a new prescription option for adults treating age-related presbyopia in the U.S. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The FDA has approved RYZUMVI, a phentolamine ophthalmic solution, for the treatment of presbyopia in adults. The eye drop is designed to address the condition affecting approximately 90% of U.S. adults over age 45.

Why it matters

This approval offers a new pharmacological option for managing the age-related loss of near-vision focus. The treatment provides an alternative for the widespread population of adults who experience presbyopia.

Approval was based on positive Phase 3 VEGA-2 and VEGA-3 trial results. Clinical findings showed conjunctival hyperemia in 21% of subjects and instillation site irritation in 16% of participants, though further long-term safety data is still being gathered.

The players

FDA

The federal agency responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical products.

Viatris Inc.

A global healthcare company that holds exclusive U.S. commercialization rights for the newly approved eye drop.

Opus Genetics

A biotechnology firm collaborating on the development and licensing of the phentolamine ophthalmic solution.

The details

The medication works through a sympatholytic mechanism by blocking alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on the iris dilator muscle. This action reduces pupil diameter, which increases depth of focus to improve near vision. Unlike other methods, this solution does not engage the ciliary muscle.

October 16, 2026: FDA approved phentolamine ophthalmic solution 0.75% for presbyopia.

Health Landscape

This approval marks a milestone in the Phase 3 development program for RYZUMVI, signaling a transition from clinical testing to clinical practice. It expands the range of pharmacological interventions currently being explored for common age-related vision changes.

If you are among the 90% of adults over 45 experiencing presbyopia, this new treatment may be a topic to discuss with your ophthalmologist. Ask your physician if a non-ciliary muscle-engaging drop is appropriate for your specific vision needs and overall eye health.

The takeaway

Presbyopia, or age-related near-vision loss, now has a new FDA-approved pharmaceutical option that functions by pupil constriction. It is recommended that individuals speak with an eye care specialist to determine if this new prescription approach is suitable for their long-term vision management.