Before turning to an ophthalmologist, patients generally look to simple over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as artificial tears or gels sold at the corner grocery store or pharmacy. We refer to them as first line therapies. They are often products that contain water and other lubricants to provide temporary relief of symptoms such as dryness, foreign body sensation, pain etc. Consumers choose therapies based on their ability to reduce symptoms and price, while increasing convenience. Roughly 80% of dry eye sufferers try artificial tears as first line therapy.

Many doctors first recommend artificial tears before prescribing medications such as cyclosporine, corticosteroids, and other compounds that can reduce symptoms but could have unwanted side effects associated with a patient's immune system. Often times doctors also recommend use of first line therapies in combination with prescription medications to achieve a better therapeutic effect and quality of life for patients.

RP501 represents a clinically proven, next-generation first line therapy that builds upon the advantages of artificial tears and gels. Based on the IntelliGel platform, this thermogel is easily applied like liquid eye drops, but provides longer-lasting relief like gels by staying on the front of the eye longer. Applied to the front of the eye, the heat of the eye causes the therapy to form a thin gel, thus providing moisturizing water and surface protection. Clinical tests have shown significant therapeutic effect in both a basket of subjective and objective measures.

The demand for new treatments is growing with an ageing population and increasing screen times associated with smartphone and computer use. RP501 is well-positioned to help the growing number of sufferers with a clinically proven product giving longer lasting efficacy, especially 30-40% of sufferers who are dissatisfied with current therapies.