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Dec 3, 2008 10:19 am US/Pacific
FDA Looking At Drug That Enhances Eyelashes
WASHINGTON (AP) ―
Federal regulators on Wednesday said a glaucoma drug from Allergan appears to make eyelashes longer and fuller, and experts soon will assess the safety of that new use.
Allergan, which makes Botox anti-wrinkle injections, has asked the Food and Drug Administration to approve its bimatoprost formula to enhance eyelashes. A panel of experts on Friday will comment on the drug's safety and effectiveness as a cosmetic.
The drug is already marketed under the name Lumigan, to treat eye conditions stemming from glaucoma. In studies for that treatment, researchers first noticed the drug seemed to stimulate eyelash growth.
Irvine, Calif.-based Allergan plans to market the drug under the brand name Latisse, if it is approved as a cosmetic treatment.
The FDA said in documents posted online Wednesday that Allergan's drug appears to significantly enhance eyelashes, as measured by "before and after" photos.
Allergan measured Latisse's effect using a four point scale, ranging from "minimal" eyelash prominence to "very marked" prominence. The drug is applied once daily to the base of the eyelashes.
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