LENZ Therapeutics and Lunatus Announce Exclusive Partnership for VIZZ™ in the Middle East
On January 5, 2026, LENZ Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: LENZ) and Lunatus Marketing & Consulting FZCO ("Lunatus") unveiled an exclusive distribution agreement that will allow Lunatus to register and commercialize VIZZ™ (aceclidine ophthalmic solution) 1.44% in the Middle East. This milestone event highlights the commitment of LENZ to expand global access to innovative treatments for presbyopia, a common age-related vision condition.
Details of the Distribution Agreement
Under this new agreement, LENZ is set to receive various payments, including:
- Upfront payments
- Regulatory milestone payments
- Commercial milestone payments
- A significant share of revenue generated in the Middle East
Lunatus will maintain exclusive commercialization rights across several key markets in the region, including:
- United Arab Emirates
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Kuwait
- Qatar
- Bahrain
- Oman
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Iraq
Quotes from Leadership
Eef Schimmelpennink, President and CEO of LENZ Therapeutics, commented on the partnership: “As the commercial launch of VIZZ in the United States continues to build momentum, we are pleased to expand our network of commercial partnerships in key strategic regions outside the United States.” He added that Lunatus has developed an outstanding reputation for quality execution and regulatory excellence in the Middle East.
Dr. Lina Kouatly, President & CEO of Lunatus, expressed excitement about the collaboration: “VIZZ represents a transformational advancement for patients living with presbyopia, offering the potential for greater visual independence and improved quality of life.”
Background on Presbyopia and VIZZ
Presbyopia, an inevitable loss of near vision due to aging, affects nearly all individuals over 45. With the crystalline lens in the eye gradually hardening, many adults find themselves needing reading glasses or other corrective aids by their mid-40s.
VIZZ, the first FDA-approved aceclidine-based eye drop for presbyopia, offers a once-daily solution that restores clear near vision for up to 10 hours. VIZZ is preservative-free and is delivered in single-dose vials, with a unique action that enhances focus and extends depth of vision.
Recent Developments and Future of VIZZ
In July 2025, LENZ announced FDA approval for VIZZ, with the product becoming commercially available in the U.S. starting September 30, 2025. This strategic partnership with Lunatus is the fourth such agreement for LENZ, showcasing a robust commitment to meeting the global demand for presbyopia solutions.
About LENZ Therapeutics and Lunatus
LENZ Therapeutics is a pharmaceutical company focused on the commercialization of VIZZ, aimed at addressing the needs of 1.8 billion individuals worldwide affected by presbyopia. The company is headquartered in San Diego, California.
Lunatus is based in Dubai and specializes in providing commercializational support to healthcare companies in the Middle East. With a proven track record in brand establishment and market growth, Lunatus enhances access to innovative healthcare solutions.