Bausch + Lomb Launches Blink™ NutriTears® Clinically Proven Nutritional Supplement for Dry Eyes in the United States

Rhea-AI Summary

Bausch + Lomb (NYSE/TSX: BLCO) has launched Blink NutriTears, a new clinically proven over-the-counter supplement for dry eyes in the U.S. This product targets the root causes of dry eyes and promotes healthy tear production, providing relief within two to four weeks. The supplement contains lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin, and vitamin D, shown to improve ocular symptoms and tear film homeostasis. Clinical studies indicate NutriTears can keep tears on the eyes 33% longer, offering significant symptom relief. It will be available in the eye care aisle and online at major retailers by the end of July.

Positive

• Clinically proven to relieve dry eye symptoms in 2-4 weeks.
• Targets root causes of dry eyes and promotes healthy tear production.
• Contains nutrient-rich ingredients like lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin, and vitamin D.
• Clinical studies show that tears stay on eyes 33% longer.
• Will be available nationwide by the end of July.

Negative

• No specific revenue or financial data provided to gauge financial impact.
• No information on potential side effects or contraindications.

Market Research Analyst

The launch of Blink NutriTears by Bausch + Lomb is noteworthy within the context of the growing market for dry eye treatments. Considering the increasing prevalence of dry eyes, particularly due to rising digital device usage, the introduction of a new over-the-counter supplement can significantly influence the market dynamics. A new product addressing the root causes of dry eye symptoms can potentially capture a substantial share of the market, especially if supported by clinical evidence.

From a market standpoint, this product diversification strengthens Bausch + Lomb's portfolio in the eye care segment. It meets an evident consumer demand for alternatives to traditional eye drops, aligning with the industry's shift towards holistic health solutions. The product’s availability in major retailers also ensures significant market penetration.

Long-term success hinges on consumer acceptance and the demonstration of sustained benefits. The clinical results suggesting 33% longer tear retention and 70% of dry eye cases linked to digital use, if continually validated, will enhance market credibility and drive sales.

Medical Research Analyst

The Blink NutriTears supplement is significant from a medical research perspective. The unique formulation featuring lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin and vitamin D addresses the multifactorial nature of dry eyes. These ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can be effective in managing ocular surface diseases.

The clinical studies showing statistically significant symptom relief within two to four weeks are notable. Such results indicate that the supplement provides legitimate benefits, which can be a game-changer for patients with chronic dry eye conditions. The supplement's ability to enhance tear film homeostasis implies a deeper, system-wide effect beyond localized treatments.

However, the real-world effectiveness of these claims remains to be seen. Continuous post-market surveillance and additional studies will be necessary to validate the long-term efficacy and safety of these supplements in a broader population.

Financial Analyst

From a financial perspective, the launch of Blink NutriTears represents a strategic expansion for Bausch + Lomb, potentially leading to increased revenue streams. This product taps into a growing demographic of younger consumers affected by digital eye strain, expanding the addressable market substantially. Given the clinical support backing the product's efficacy, it is poised for a positive reception.

The launch timing, ahead of significant shopping periods and the distribution across major retailers, are strategic moves that could enhance sales. If the product gains traction, it could contribute to top-line growth and strengthen Bausch + Lomb's market position in the eye health sector.

Investors should watch for initial sales figures and market reception to gauge the product's potential impact on the company's financial health. The focus on nutraceuticals also aligns with current health and wellness trends, which could translate to sustained revenue growth in the long term.

VAUGHAN, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE/TSX: BLCO), a leading global eye health company dedicated to helping people see better to live better, today announced the U.S. launch of Blink NutriTears, a clinically proven over-the-counter supplement that targets the key root causes of dry eyes, promotes healthy tear production and provides noticeable relief of eye dryness symptoms in as little as two to four weeks.^1,2*

“We offer dry eye sufferers a wide array of options that target the ocular surface, but many consumers are looking for options that go beyond eye drops,” said John Ferris, executive vice president, Consumer, Bausch + Lomb. “With Blink NutriTears, consumers now have a first-of-its-kind clinically proven nutritional supplement that helps hydrate their eyes from within and provides long-lasting relief. It will be an outstanding complement to our growing dry eye portfolio.”*

Approximately 150 million adults experience symptoms of dry eyes in the United States. Once a condition known to traditionally affect adults over the age of 55, dry eyes are impacting a younger demographic of consumers fueled by modern-day factors such as increased digital device use, environmental stressors, anxiety and stress. Nearly 70% of consumers attribute their dry eyes to digital device use.²

Developed in collaboration with eye care and nutritional experts, Blink NutriTears is formulated with a proprietary blend of ingredients, including lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin and vitamin D, which were shown to improve ocular symptom severity and tear film homeostasis. It was also shown to clinically help tears stay on the eyes for 33% longer.¹*

"Blink NutriTears demonstrated consistent positive results across two distinct studies. The clinical results are compelling - within a month, patients achieved statistically significant dry eye symptom relief," said Laura M. Periman, MD, cornea and refractive fellowship trained ocular surface disease expert, and founder and director, Dry Eye Services and Clinical Research, Periman Eye Institute, Seattle. "With its unique formulation, I anticipate Blink NutriTears will become an important addition to dry eye management strategies."

“Ocular wellness, especially for dry eye patients, begins with nutritional support. Blink NutriTears has nutrient-rich ingredients that complement each other and have been shown to address the signs and symptoms of dry eyes,” said Neda Gioia, OD, CNS, founder, Integrative Vision, president, Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society, and Blink NutriTears clinical study investigator. “I believe Blink NutriTears will be a game-changer for patients who are seeking relief from symptoms of dry eyes.”

Blink NutriTears will be available in the eye care aisle or online at most major retailers nationwide by the end of July. For more information on Blink NutriTears, visit https://www.justblink.com/products/blink-nutritears/.

About Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not make enough or the right type of tears. Dry eyes are uncomfortable and can feel different to different people. Common symptoms include pain, dryness, irritation, burning, itching, grittiness, excessive blinking, light sensitivity and blurry vision. Over time, if left untreated, dry eye symptoms can become more severe and impact eye health and vision.³

About the Blink NutriTears Clinical Study

The prospective, randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled clinical study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Blink NutriTears in 155 adult participants with mild dry eye symptoms (aged 18–65; median age 42). Participants were randomized to receive one Blink NutriTears or placebo capsule per day for 56 days (eight weeks). Artificial tear use was also recorded. The clinical study met both of its primary endpoints. Participants consuming the once daily Blink NutriTears had significant improvements in tear production, and by day 14, total Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores, as well as symptoms and vision domains of the OSDI significantly improved from baseline for participants consuming Blink NutriTears versus placebo.⁴*

About the Blink Brand

Blink is a leading brand that consists of lubricating eye drops for dry eyes and dry contacts, as well as a new clinically proven nutritional supplement. Blink eye drops are formulated to relieve dryness and discomfort in the eyes and work by moisturizing the surface of the eye and providing relief from irritation. Blink NutriTears is formulated with a novel blend of ingredients including lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin and vitamin D, and taken once daily provides noticeable, continuous dry eye symptom relief from the inside out. For more information, visit www.justblink.com.

About Bausch + Lomb

Bausch + Lomb is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the gift of sight for millions of people around the world – from birth through every phase of life. Its comprehensive portfolio of approximately 400 products includes contact lenses, lens care products, eye care products, ophthalmic pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products and ophthalmic surgical devices and instruments. Founded in 1853, Bausch + Lomb has a significant global research and development, manufacturing and commercial footprint with approximately 13,000 employees and a presence in nearly 100 countries. Bausch + Lomb is headquartered in Vaughan, Ontario with corporate offices in Bridgewater, New Jersey. For more information, visit www.bausch.com and connect with us on X, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Forward-looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements, which may generally be identified by the use of the words “anticipates,” “hopes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “will,” “may,” “believes,” “estimates,” “potential,” “target,” or “continue” and variations or similar expressions. These statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties discussed in Bausch + Lomb’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian Securities Administrators, which factors are incorporated herein by reference. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Bausch + Lomb undertakes no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news release or to reflect actual outcomes, unless required by law.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References

1. Based on a clinical study
2. The 2022 Study of Dry Eye Sufferer: Multi-Sponsor Survey Inc.
3. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye.
4. Gioia, et al. A Novel Multi-Ingredient Supplement Significantly Improves Ocular Symptoms Severity and Tear Production in Patients with Dry Eye Disease: Results from a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Front. Ophthalmol. 2024;4. doi: 10.3389/fopht.2024.1362113.

© 2024 Bausch + Lomb.
BLS.0083.USA.24

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240603531891/en/

Media Contact:

Kristy Marks

kristy.marks@bausch.com

(908) 927-0683



Investor Contact:

George Gadkowski

george.gadkowski@bausch.com

(877) 354-3705 (toll free)

(908) 927-0735

Source: Bausch + Lomb Corporation

FAQ

What is Blink NutriTears?

Blink NutriTears is a clinically proven over-the-counter supplement by Bausch + Lomb that targets dry eyes and promotes healthy tear production.

When will Blink NutriTears be available?

Blink NutriTears will be available in the eye care aisle and online at most major retailers nationwide by the end of July.

What ingredients are in Blink NutriTears?

Blink NutriTears contains lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin, and vitamin D.

How effective is Blink NutriTears?

Clinical studies show that Blink NutriTears can relieve dry eye symptoms in 2-4 weeks and keep tears on the eyes for 33% longer.

What is the stock symbol for Bausch + Lomb?

The stock symbol for Bausch + Lomb is BLCO.