Eye Care in the US

2020 IMPACT

The flexibility of working at home and virtual learning slows standard eye care growth

With many Americans working at home and engaging in online learning, screen time has been rising and has subsequently been increasing exposure of the eyes to harmful blue light. As a result, Americans are experiencing more digital eye strain, which can lead to irritated and dry eyes.

Fears of mistaken COVID-19-related eye irritations keeps allergy eye care in demand

When the Centers for Disease Control expanded its potential COVID-19 symptoms, pink eye was one possible indication of the virus. With red eye and pink eye easily confused, some consumers stocked up on allergy eye care to avoid mistaken symptoms.

Alcon caters to sensitive eyes with the launch of Systane Hydration Preservative-Free

Alcon Laboratories announced the release of Systane Hydration Preservative-Free in March 2020. Although the official launch was before the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in the US, Systane Hydration PF recognises the growing demand for eye lubricants in order to assist with irritations related to digital eye strain.

RECOVERY AND OPPORTUNITIES

Increasing demand for standard eye care will continue beyond the COVID-19 era

Prior to the increasing screen time caused by working at home and virtual learning in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers were already spending more time on electronic devices as improvements to digital infrastructure were providing opportunities for Americans to incorporate more screen time into their lives. With the sudden disruption of COVID-19, mobile services such as telehealth and e-commerce have improved significantly and, in some ways, transformed Americans’ reliance on screens.

Alcon introduces Pataday in the OTC channel

Following its split from Novartis AG in 2019, Alcon Laboratories secured the rights for the Rx-to-OTC switch of Pataday. In March 2020, the Pataday OTC line-up included once daily and twice daily formats and, in July 2020, Alcon once again received FDA approval for the OTC sale of Pataday Once Daily Relief Extra Strength.

AbbVie’s acquisition of Allergan diversifies its portfolio to include eye care

With the Federal Trade Commission’s approval in May 2020, AbbVie Inc moved forward with its acquisition of Allergan Inc. Traditionally operating in the pharmaceutical space, this moved AbbVie into OTC eye care with the Refresh brands.