New Insight: A Look at Qlosi for Presbyopia with Elad Kedar, MBA

Welcome back to New Insight with Veeral Sheth, MD!
In this episode of New Insight, host Veeral Sheth, MD, MBA, director of clinical research at University Retina and Macula Associates, explored the approval and impending launch of Qlosi (pilocarpine HCL ophthalmic solution) 0.4%, a groundbreaking pharmacologic option for managing presbyopia, with Elad Kedar, MBA, chief executive officer of Orasis Pharmaceuticals.
A condition that affects nearly all adults as they age, presbyopia is characterized by the gradual loss of near vision due to reduced lens elasticity. Sheth and Kedar highlighted the significance of finding non-invasive treatment options for this pervasive issue, given the limitations of traditional solutions like reading glasses or surgical interventions.
In October 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Qlosi, a preservative-free, low-dose eye drop for presbyopia, based on strong efficacy, safety, and tolerability data reported in the pivotal Phase 3 NEAR-1 and NEAR-2 clinical trials. On Day 8, patients treated with Qlosi achieved statistically significant ≥3-line gain in distance-corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA) and no loss of ≥1-line in distance visual acuity.
Sheth and Kedar delved into Qlosi’s innovative mechanism of action, emphasizing how it leverages a unique pharmacologic approach to improve near vision. By modulating pupil dynamics, Qlosi enhances the depth of focus, effectively allowing patients to perform near-vision tasks without additional aids. Together, Sheth and Kedar walked through the drug’s clinical development journey, highlighting his journey through the founding of Orasis and the company’s name in Greek, meaning “good vision or sight.”
The discussion included insights into the populations most likely to benefit from Qlosi and the practical considerations for prescribing. Sheth offered a nuanced take on how this therapy could fit into the broader landscape of presbyopia management, addressing questions about patient education, adherence, and expectations.
Sheth also shared his perspective on the potential impact of Qlosi on clinical practice, noting that its ease of use and non-invasive nature could appeal to both patients and providers. He reflected on how treatments like Qlosi are part of a broader trend toward personalized medicine, focusing on solutions that improve the quality of life for aging populations.
This episode concluded with a thoughtful look at future research directions and the impending launch of Qlosi. Expected soon, Kedar expressed an interest in sharing more details on the product and its position in the presbyopia treatment landscape once the drug comes to market.
Every episode of New Insight is available on HCPLive.com. Watch full episodes on our UA-cam channel and listen wherever you get your podcasts. Direct all podcast-related inquiries to show producer Connor Iapoce ([e-mail]) and keep an eye out for more from New Insight!
Key Episode Timestamps
00:05 Introduction to Elad Kedar and Orasis
04:34 Orasis' Journey and Initial Development
06:45 Elad Kedar's Background and Company Growth
08:36 Transition from Product Development to Team Building
11:42 Phase Three Study Results and Efficacy
13:39 Safety, Comfort, and Tolerability
15:00 Genesis of the Company Name Orasis
18:26 Challenges and Strategic Planning
21:57 Market Position and Future Outlook
27:27 Conclusion and Future Plans