What are VIZZ eye drops, and how do they restore vision?
In short:
- VIZZ is the only FDA-approved acedidine eye drop for presbyopia as of 2025.
- Restores near vision within 30 minutes; effect lasts up to 10 hours.
- Phase 3 trials: 70% of users improved near vision significantly.
Updated August 2025
As of August 2025, VIZZ eye drops are the first FDA-approved prescription drops clinically shown to restore near vision in adults with presbyopia temporarily. The effect lasts up to 10 hours and occurs within 30 minutes.
Key Facts
- FDA approved VIZZ in August 2025 for adult presbyopia.
- Active ingredient: aceclidine 1.44% ophthalmic solution.
- Improved near vision within 30 minutes; effect lasts up to 10 hours.
- Over 900 participants in phase 3 clinical trials.
- No serious adverse events reported in studies.
How do VIZZ eye drops work?
VIZZ eye drops improve near vision by reducing the size of the pupil (miosis). This increases the depth of the field, making close objects more straightforward. The active ingredient, aceclidine, stimulates muscles that constrict the pupil without affecting distance vision.
VIZZ is the only FDA-approved aceclidine-based drop for presbyopia as of 2025. Clinical studies show that most users experience noticeable improvement within 30 minutes. The effect peaks between 1 and 2 hours and lasts for up to 10 hours. The drops are used once daily, usually in the morning.
This mechanism is sometimes called the “pinhole effect,” which is a well-established optical principle. By narrowing the pupil, the eye reduces blurring from presbyopia without the need for reading glasses. For more details on alternatives, see How are VIZZ drops used and how are they different from other options?.
Who can benefit from VIZZ?
VIZZ is indicated for adults diagnosed with presbyopia, a common age-related condition affecting over 120 million people in the U.S. It is not approved for children or people with certain eye conditions.
Patients aged 40 and older who experience difficulty reading small print or focusing up close are the leading target group. VIZZ offers an alternative to reading glasses or contact lenses, but it does not cure presbyopia or prevent its progression.
As of August 2025, VIZZ is only available by prescription and is recommended after an eye exam. For more clinical data, please see how effective and safe VIZZ eye drops are.
How effective and safe are VIZZ eye drops?
In phase 3 trials (CLARITY 1, 2, and 3), more than 900 adults used VIZZ daily for up to 6 months. About 70% improved by at least three lines on a near-vision eye chart without losing distance vision.
Most adverse effects were mild and temporary. The most common side effects were mild eye irritation (about 20%), slightly reduced night vision (16%), and headache (13%). No serious or lasting complications were reported.
Clinical trial data confirm that VIZZ maintains distance vision while enhancing near vision for most adults.
Summary of Clinical Trial Results
Outcome | Percentage |
---|
Near vision improved by≥3 lines | ~70% |
Eye irritation (mild/moderate) | 20% |
Temporary dim vision | 16% |
Headache | 13% |
Serious adverse events | 0% |
How are VIZZ drops used, and how are they different from other options?
VIZZ is dosed as one drop in each eye, once daily. The drops start working quickly, and the effect lasts most of the day. This differentiates VIZZ from other presbyopia drops, such as pilocarpine-based solutions, which may require more frequent dosing and have more visual side effects.
Unlike surgery or permanent laser treatments, VIZZ offers reversible and temporary vision correction. The drops do not change the eye’s anatomy and can be discontinued at any time. VIZZ also provides a longer effect compared to the first-in-class product Vuity.
VIZZ may set a new standard for non-surgical presbyopia management in the United States. If you would like more information about eligible patients, see Who can benefit from VIZZ?.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the active ingredient in VIZZ?
VIZZ contains aceclidine 1.44%, a muscarinic agonist that safely reduces pupil size to improve near vision.
How quickly do VIZZ eye drops work?
Most users notice improvement in near vision within 30 minutes after application.
Are there any serious side effects?
No serious side effects were reported in clinical trials. Most reactions were mild and resolved without intervention.
Can VIZZ replace reading glasses?
VIZZ can reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses for up to 10 hours, but does not cure presbyopia.
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