Bridgewater, NJ – January 7, 2013 – Valeant Ophthalmics, a division of Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC, announced today that it has worked with the American Glaucoma Society (AGS) to establish an award in memory of Dr. Thom J. Zimmerman, the developer of the glaucoma medication timolol maleate (TIMOPTIC®). The award will be called “The American Glaucoma Society – Thom J. Zimmerman, MD, PhD Memorial Award, supported by Valeant Ophthalmics.”
The award will consist of an unrestricted grant of $40,000 to a mid-career physician scientist in 2013 engaged in innovative clinical research to benefit glaucoma patient management. The award recipient will be selected by the AGS Research Committee with final approval of the AGS Board of Directors.
Dr. Zimmerman was Emeritus Professor and Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Emeritus Professor of the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Louisville. He was best known for the development of drugs for treatment of glaucoma including timolol. With his partner, Chris Paterson, he spearheaded the building of the addition to the Kentucky Lions Eye Center and the Rounsavall Eye Clinic.
Indications for TIMOPTIC® in OCUDOSE®
TIMOPTIC® (timolol maleate 0.5% ophthalmic solution) in OCUDOSE® (dispenser) is a classic IOP lowering medication available in a preservative-free form. Preservative-free TIMOPTIC® in OCUDOSE® is indicated in the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. Preservative-free TIMOPTIC® in OCUDOSE® may be used when a patient is sensitive to the preservative in TIMOPTIC® (timolol maleate ophthalmic solution), benzalkonium chloride, or when use of a preservative-free topical medication is advisable.
Important Safety Information About TIMOPTIC® in OCUDOSE®
Timoptic is contraindicated in patients with: bronchial asthma; a history of bronchial asthma; severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; sinus bradycardia; second or third degree atrioventricular block; overt cardiac failure; cardiogenic shock; hypersensitivity to any component of this product.
This drug is absorbed systemically. The same adverse reactions found with systemic administration of beta-adrenergic blocking agents may occur with topical administration. Severe respiratory or cardiac reactions, including death, have been reported following systemic or ophthalmic administration of timolol maleate. TIMOPTIC® should be used with caution in patients with cerebrovascular insufficiency. The most frequently reported adverse experiences have been burning and stinging upon instillation.
About Valeant Ophthalmics
Valeant Ophthalmics, a division of Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC, is part of a growing pharmaceutical company that is committed to supporting ophthalmics. Valeant Ophthalmics provides clinicians with established therapies that are designed to meet the needs of specific patient populations. Our “Art and Science of Vision” theme reflects the company’s commitment to refining ophthalmic therapies to better match treatments to individual patient needs and to support eye care professionals in the art of patient management.
Ed Stevens
Chase Communications
727-327-3396
[email protected]