Aequus Pharmaceuticals Inc. announced that it has submitted a New Drug Submission (NDS) application to Health Canada for preservative-free bimatoprost 0.03% eye drops termed ‘Zimed PF'. At this stage, Health Canada has accepted the submission for Screening. The ZimedTM PF formulation was selected based on extensive clinical data demonstrating the efficacy and safety of the bimatoprost molecule and 0.03% concentration for the reduction of intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or glaucoma.

Upon approval, this preservative-free formulation, will also provide eye care professionals a new option for patients who are sensitive to preservatives or have ocular surface disease. According to Health Canada, the target review time for an NDS is 355 days. Aequus is moving ahead with plans in accordance with this timeline but acknowledges that review timing may be affected by factors out of control such as backlogs caused by COVID-19.