Could These Eye Drops End Presbyopia for Millions?
A study presented at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons has revealed promising results for eye drops that reverse ageing vision and prevent presbyopia. These drops could reduce the need for reading glasses, offering millions of people a non-surgical option to improve near vision.
What is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a natural, age-related condition where the eyes gradually lose the ability to focus on nearby objects. It typically begins in the early to mid-40s and progresses until around age 65.
The eye focuses by using both the cornea and the lens. While the cornea remains stable, the lens is designed to flex and change shape thanks to surrounding circular muscles. This flexibility allows us to switch focus from distant to close objects.
As we age, however, the lens becomes stiffer and less elastic. This makes it harder to adjust focus at short distances, leading to blurred or strained vision when reading fine print or working up close. According to the American Optometric Association, presbyopia affects around 128 million Americans, about 90% of people over 45.
How Do These Eye Drops Work?
The new study tested drops that combine two active ingredients:
- Pilocarpine – a well-known drug that constricts pupils and contracts the ciliary muscle, helping the eye accommodate focus at different distances.
- Diclofenac – a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) added to reduce irritation or inflammation that pilocarpine can sometimes cause.
By working together, these agents improve near focusing ability while minimising discomfort.
The Clinical Study
The trial included 766 participants (373 women and 393 men) with an average age of 55. They were divided into groups receiving eye drop formulations containing the same dose of diclofenac but varying concentrations of pilocarpine: 1%, 2%, and 3%.
Patients were instructed to use the drops twice daily, once in the morning and again six hours later. A third, optional dose could be taken if vision issues returned during the day.
Results showed that most participants experienced measurable improvement in near vision. Many were able to read additional lines on standard eye charts compared to their baseline ability before starting treatment.
This treatment can substantially reduce dependence on reading glasses, providing a convenient, non-invasive alternative. While it may not completely replace glasses for everyone, nearly all patients reported noticeable improvement in near vision.
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Dr. Giovanna Benozzi, Director of the Center for Advanced Research for Presbyopia, Buenos Aires, Argentina
How Long Do the Benefits Last?
When used consistently, the eye drops can strengthen close-up vision for up to two years. Although they may not eliminate the need for glasses in every case, they represent a major step forward in non-surgical solutions for age-related vision decline.
Conclusion
The development of eye drops that reverse ageing vision and prevent presbyopia could transform eye care for millions worldwide. For patients who cannot afford or prefer to avoid surgery, these drops may offer an accessible, effective, and safe alternative to reading glasses.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 25 September 2025
- 20:00
