More positive results for ISTA's Bepreve

US firm ISTA Pharmaceuticals has announced positive preliminary results from the second Phase III trial on its candidate Bepreve (bepotastine ophthalmic solution) for the treatment of ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.

Early analysis of the data from the late-stage trial shows highly statistically-significant effects in achieving the study's primary endpoint. Strong results were also reported for the trial's secondary endpoints, including rapidity of action, and the treatment of other signs and symptoms of ocular allergy.

The study was a single-center, double-masked, placebo-controlled evaluation of the onset and duration of effect of Bepreve. The trial utilized two concentrations and two dosing schedules of the candidate, once-daily and twice-daily, for 107 patients. The twice-daily dosage provided the best results, and the higher dose's effect was comparable to benchmark standards for drug approval.