Harrow has officially launched Iheezo (chloroprocaine hydrochloride ophthalmic gel) 3% during the 2023 American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), held May 5-8, in San Diego.
Refresh me on Iheezo.
Approved by the FDA in September 2022, Iheezo is a sterile, single-use, physician-administered, preservative-free low-viscosity ophthalmic gel with an indication for ocular surface anesthesia.
To note: it is also the first branded ocular anesthetic approved in the United States in nearly 14 years.
Back up a bit … how did it perform in clinical trials?
Iheezo’s safety and efficacy were demonstrated in three clinical studies. See here for more details.
Didn’t we just hear news about it?
Yes! In March 2023, the Centers for Medicaid & Medicaid Services (CMS) granted transitional pass-through reimbursement status, effective April 1, for a 3-year period.
Before that, in February 2023, CMS granted Iheezo a permanent, product-specific J-code (J-2403), enabling a more efficient billing process for eyecare professionals (also effective April 1).
So where can I find Iheezo now?
According to Harrow, the product—along with its entire ophthalmic pharmaceutical portfolio—is available at the company’s booth (#2237) during ASCRS 2023.
For those not attending the annual meeting, visit here to learn more about how to order.
What if I’m at ASCRS?
A launch event for Iheezo will be held on Saturday, May 6, in San Diego. Click here for details on registration.