Allergan, Argentum reach Restasis settlement

NEW YORK — Generic pharmaceutical manufacturer Argentum Pharmaceuticals announced that it has reached a settlement and license agreement with Allergan related to Argentum's generic version of Restasis (0.05% cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion).

According to Argentum, the agreement generally provides that Argentum may commence marketing its generic equivalent product sometime prior to the expiration of the patents covering Restasis. The specific date on which Argentum may launch its generic product and other details concerning the settlement have not been disclosed.

Restasis and Restasis MultiDose Ophthalmic Emulsion help increase the eyes’ natural ability to produce tears, which may be reduced by inflammation due to Chronic Dry Eye, according to its manufacturer, Allergan.

The most common side effect is a temporary burning sensation. Other side effects include eye redness, discharge, watery eyes, eye pain, foreign body sensation, itching, stinging, and blurred vision.