Bausch & Lomb signs eye drug licensing deal with Schering

Bausch & Lomb will evaluate the compound's potential as a novel anti-inflammatory medication with an improved safety profile for ophthalmic indications. Glucocorticoids are the most potent and frequently used anti-inflammatory compounds but their value is limited by side effects including glaucoma induction.

Selective glucocorticoid receptor agonists (SEGRAs), using a distinct molecular mechanism after binding to a glucocorticoid receptor, may demonstrate a superior effect/side-effect profile when compared to standard glucocorticoids. The project is in the initial preclinical stage of evaluation.

Under the terms of the agreement, Bausch & Lomb is responsible for development of the SEGRA compound for non-systemic use in ophthalmology. Bausch & Lomb will make upfront and milestone payments based on the development and registration progress, and pay ongoing royalties based on product sales. Further details of the agreement were not disclosed.