Baush & Lomb wins license rights to thrombolytic agent

Rochester, NY-Bayer HealthCare LLC's Biological Products Division has granted Bausch & Lomb (B&L) an exclusive worldwide license to its Plasmin technology for use in developing novel therapies for ocular conditions.

The drug, which is derived from processed human plasma, could be used in treating multiple indications that currently require vitrectomy surgery, said Gary M. Phillips, MD, Bausch & Lomb's corporate vice president, global pharmaceuticals and vitreoretinal.

Bayer also is exploring Plasmin's use as a thrombolytic agent to dissolve blood clots in veins and arteries.

Further details were not disclosed.

The deal comes on the heels of news that the FDA has accepted Bausch & Lomb's new drug application for its Retisert intravitreal implant for non-infectious uveitis. The implant, which is designed to deliver fluocinolone acetonide to the back of the eye for up to 3 years, is on the FDA's Fast Track list and has received orphan drug status.

Since the drug is part of the FDA's Continuous Marketing Application Pilot 1 Program, the company hopes to receive FDA notification of the application status this spring, with commercialization targeted for later in 2005.