Harrow Inc. (NASDAQ:HROW) on Wednesday announced the relaunch of VERKAZIA (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) 0.1%, a prescription treatment for vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), a serious allergic eye condition that primarily affects children.
The eye care company said the move reflects its continued focus on underserved ophthalmic diseases and marks progress in executing its portfolio strategy.
Mark Baum, chief executive officer of Harrow, noted that VERKAZIA is the second of three priority products identified in the company’s recent Letter to Stockholders that Harrow is actively advancing within its portfolio.
How Verkazia Works In VKC Treatment
VERKAZIA is a topical calcineurin inhibitor immunomodulator designed to address the underlying inflammation associated with VKC.
According to the company, clinical guidelines are increasingly supporting the earlier use of calcineurin inhibitors to help manage inflammation, reduce dependence on corticosteroids, and improve long-term patient outcomes.
Unlike long-term corticosteroid therapy, VERKAZIA does not carry risks such as glaucoma or cataract formation, a factor that may be particularly important for pediatric patients who often require extended treatment.
Clinical Data Supports Steroid-Sparing Approach
Harrow said randomized, controlled clinical trials demonstrated statistically significant improvements in keratitis, or corneal damage, among patients treated with VERKAZIA.
The studies also showed meaningful reductions in common VKC symptoms, including itching, photophobia, and tearing. In addition, patients receiving VERKAZIA required less corticosteroid rescue therapy than those in the control group.
The company said these findings support VERKAZIA’s role as a foundational treatment option that may help reduce long-term reliance on steroids in VKC management.
Analyst Views Relaunch As Portfolio Enhancement
In an investor note on Wednesday, William Blair wrote that Harrow’s relaunch of Verkazia for VKC may not be expected to be a major top-line driver, but it still represents a supplemental source of revenue for the company.
The update exemplifies management’s ongoing initiatives to maximize the value of its broader portfolio and strengthen its expanding ophthalmic portfolio.
HROW Price Action: Harrow shares were up 3.45% at $35.50 at the time of publication on Thursday, according to Benzinga Pro data.HROW Stock Price Activity: Harrow shares were down 1.11% at $35.50 during premarket trading on Thursday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
Image via Shutterstock/ New Africa
