The FDA has approved ISTAs Xibrom (bromfenac ophthalmic solution 0.09%) for the treatment of ocular inflammation following cataract surgery. Xibrom is the first twice-daily ophthalmic NSAID; all other ophthalmic NSAIDs are dosed q.i.d. The company plans to launch Xibrom in the second quarter of 2005.

Optometrist Alan Frank, of Kingston, Pa., announced that hes in the running for president of the AOA by challenging for the officea move that hasnt happened in the history of the organization, he says. His platform: to eliminate animosity with ophthalmology, to stop pursuing optometric laser procedures, to aggressively deal with third-party plans and to solidify standards for pediatric care. Election of officers takes place in June at the AOAs annual Congress in Dallas.

Hispanics in Southern California have a higher prevalence for dry eye symptoms than most other ethnic populations, according to a study by Milton Hom, O.D., in the March issue of Optometry and Vision Science. About 44% of his practices Hispanic patients experienced some dry eye symptoms. One in four had clinically relevant (mild, moderate or severe) scores that merited treatment.