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Miostat (CARBACHOL)

Novartis · FDA-approved approved Small molecule Quality 48/100

Miostat works by mimicking the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine to increase the outflow of aqueous humor and reduce intraocular pressure.

Miostat (CARBACHOL) is a small molecule carbachol drug developed by ALCON, currently owned by Alcon, and approved by the FDA in 1972 for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma. It targets the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3 to increase the outflow of aqueous humor, thereby reducing intraocular pressure. Miostat is off-patent and has two generic manufacturers. As a cholinergic agonist, it mimics the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, leading to increased parasympathetic activity and decreased sympathetic activity in the eye. This results in the constriction of the pupil and increased outflow of aqueous humor.

At a glance

Generic nameCARBACHOL
SponsorNovartis
Drug classcarbachol
TargetMuscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaNeuroscience
PhaseFDA-approved
First approval1972

Mechanism of action

Think of it like a key that unlocks a door. In this case, the key is Miostat, and the door is the eye's natural ability to drain fluid. When Miostat is used, it helps the eye to drain fluid more efficiently, which reduces pressure and helps to prevent damage to the optic nerve.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
FDA labelMechanism, indications, dosing, boxed warnings, drug interactions
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results