Henric Bjarke

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The race to replace reading glasses

Leading commercial launch preparations following FDA approval

For 240 years, reading glasses have treated presbyopia—the gradual loss of near vision that affects nearly everyone over 45—unchanged since Benjamin Franklin invented bifocals in 1785. Two billion people worldwide still rely on reading glasses today. On January 29, 2026, the FDA approved YUVEZZI (carbachol and brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution), the first dual-agent eye drop for presbyopia.

Updated May 23

Notable Quotes

The FDA approval of YUVEZZI represents a significant milestone for the millions of people in the U.S. living with presbyopia and its daily frustrations and challenges. As the first FDA-approved dual-agent eye drop for presbyopia, YUVEZZI leverages the mechanisms of carbachol and brimonidine tartrate to deliver sharp near vision with favorable tolerability. People deserve treatments that not only work but also can fit conveniently into their daily lives, and YUVEZZI brings an innovative new option to the presbyopia category.

from The race to replace reading glasses · Updated May 23