By Fineline Cube 
Japan-based Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. announced that it has received marketing approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for its fixed-combination eye drops, Tapcom (tafluprost/timolol maleate). This approval allows the product to be used for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, offering new therapeutic options for patients.
Product Profile
Tapcom combines tafluprost 0.0015% and timolol 0.5%, leveraging two distinct mechanisms of action to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP). Tafluprost, a prostaglandin analog, increases uveoscleral outflow, while timolol, a beta-blocker, decreases aqueous humor production. This dual-action approach is designed to provide more effective IOP lowering compared to monotherapy.
Target Patient Population
The approval of Tapcom addresses the needs of patients for whom topical beta-blockers or prostaglandin derivatives alone have failed to achieve target IOP. Additionally, the product is suitable for patients requiring preservative-free eye drops during long-term glaucoma medication use, enhancing treatment adherence and comfort.
Market Opportunity
Tapcom’s approval in China underscores Santen’s commitment to expanding its presence in the global ophthalmology market. The product’s unique formulation and dual mechanism of action position it to compete effectively against existing therapies, potentially improving outcomes for patients with open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.-Fineline Info & Tech