Search

Drugs

From biosimilars to drug shortages, policies governing ophthalmic medications affect patient access to sight-saving treatments and the financial health of your practice.

An ophthalmologist administers an eye injection

The medications ophthalmologists rely on — anti-VEGF injections, eyedrops, compounded drugs, and emerging biologics — sit at the intersection of science, regulation, and policy. Decisions made by the FDA, CMS, Congress, and state legislatures directly determine which treatments are available to patients, how much they cost, and whether they can be reliably obtained. 

The Academy advocates across the full range of drug-related policy issues: expanding access to lower-cost biosimilars and compounded medicines, reducing unnecessary drug waste, protecting patients' ability to refill prescriptions before they run out, and addressing the drug shortages that threaten continuity of care. When policies are working against patients and physicians, the Academy acts — through rulemaking comments, coalition advocacy, American Medical Association (AMA) policy, and direct congressional engagement. 

Biosimilars in Ophthalmologic Practice

The Academy supports FDA-approved biosimilars for ophthalmic use, while opposing insurer mandates for biosimilar therapies without an approved ophthalmic indication.

Compounded Medicines

Ophthalmologists depend on access to compounded and repackaged medications to deliver timely, affordable, sight-saving care to their patients. But evolving federal regulations threaten to limit that access.

Topical Drug Waste

Wasteful use of ophthalmic surgical medications drives up costs for patients and practices and contributes to drug shortages and pollution.

Drug Shortages

Ophthalmology's reliance on generic drugs and single-source suppliers leaves the specialty uniquely vulnerable to supply disruptions that can delay care and harm patients.

Early Eyedrop Refills

Prescription eyedrop laws often prevent patients from refilling their medications when needed, threatening treatment adherence and vision outcomes.

FDA & Tech Innovation

The Academy supports policies that promote the timely, safe development and FDA approval of innovative drugs, devices, and technologies that preserve and restore vision.

Protect Drug Access for Your Patients

Drug shortages, pricing barriers, and restrictive policies threaten access to care. Stay informed, report shortages, and engage lawmakers to help protect patient access.

Report a Drug Shortage

Latest News

See All News on Drugs
Member exclusive Fallback image

Milestone Moment: Seniors' Act Advances Unanimously Through Ways & Means Committee

Thanks to Academy advocacy and leadership, and the voices of members like you, the Seniors’ Act cleared a major hurdle in reforming prior authorization in Medicare Advantage. Let’s keep pushing until it becomes law.

Member exclusive Fallback image

2027 Fee Schedule Proposes Cutting Pay to Physicians by 1.68%

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released its proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2027. Here are the highlights based on the Academy’s analysis. The Academy will work with our advocacy partners to ensure finalized policies support our members and their patients.

Member exclusive Fallback image

Academy Rallies Ophthalmology to Fight Proposed Drug-delivery Coverage Cuts

Leading the profession's response, the Academy united ophthalmic societies to formally oppose Medicare's proposed restrictions on intraocular drug-delivery implant coverage.

Our Advocacy in Action

The Academy advocates across the full spectrum of drug policy — from reducing operating room waste to securing biosimilar access — to protect patients and practices from the consequences of poor federal and state drug policy.

Learn More About Our Impact
A doctor wearing blue scrubs stands at a desk and writes on a pad of paper

Join Us in Protecting the Future of Eye Care

Every contribution strengthens our impact.