The breakthrough offers hope for hundreds of millions worldwide, including more than 120 million Americans with presbyopia — the gradual loss of the eye’s ability to focus on close objects. Until now, most people have relied on reading glasses, bifocals or the constant struggle of holding their phones and books farther away.
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FDA approved a new treatment called VIZZ, once-daily eye drops that significantly improve near vision without the need for glasses
(Photo: Shutterstock)
The drops use an active ingredient called aceclidine, which works differently from earlier treatments like Vuity. Those earlier medications often came with side effects such as blurred vision, eye strain and even retinal issues. VIZZ, by contrast, targets only the pupil, reducing risks and side effects.
“From around age 40 to 45, the eye’s ability to focus up close starts to weaken,” said Dr. Asaf Halali, head of ophthalmology at Clalit Health Services in Dan-Petah Tikva. “People start holding texts or screens farther away because the lens can no longer handle the focusing effort. Until now, the solution was reading glasses or enlarging the font on your phone.”
Halali noted that the concept is not entirely new. In 2021, the FDA approved two drugs based on pilocarpine, a long-used glaucoma medication reformulated for near vision. But aceclidine works more precisely, producing a “pin-hole effect” by subtly narrowing the pupil.
“When someone squints, they block scattered light and let only central rays in, which sharpens vision,” Halali explained. “VIZZ applies the same principle in a controlled way, narrowing the pupil just enough to deliver sharp near vision without straining other eye muscles.”
The drug was tested across more than 30,000 treatment days without major complications. Its effects last about 10 hours, compared to six with pilocarpine-based drops. Reported side effects were milder, with fewer headaches, less heaviness around the eyes, and reduced blurriness.
Dr. Asaf HalaliPhoto: Alex Silberstein“That’s what makes this treatment unique,” Halali said. “It has minimal impact on the ciliary muscle, so the eye doesn’t have to overwork. It’s not just about better vision — it’s also about comfort and quality of life.”
Beyond functionality, the psychological impact is significant. “Not having to rely on reading glasses, even at an older age, improves not only vision but also self-image and confidence,” Halali said.
VIZZ is expected to reach U.S. pharmacies later this year, though it remains unclear if — or when — it will be available in Israel.