LENZ Therapeutics, Inc.
For the period ended Jun 30, 2026. Filed Aug 11, 2026.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's report for each of its first three quarters. The financial statements are not audited. It shows how the business has moved since the last annual report, and what management says changed.
Jun 30, 2026 · Filed Aug 11, 2026
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-Q
Period ended 2026-03-31; filed 2026-05-11.
0001815776-26-000037
Item 1A. Risk FactorsUnregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of ProceedsDefaults Upon Senior SecuritiesMine Safety DisclosuresCurrent report: 10-Q
Period ended 2026-06-30; filed 2026-08-11.
0001815776-26-000052
Item 1A. Risk FactorsUnregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of ProceedsDefaults Upon Senior SecuritiesMine Safety DisclosuresThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 346 previous paragraphs and 345 current paragraphs.
315 unchanged; 25 reworded; 1 added; 3 removed; 3 previous and 4 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (1)
Current report
Moreover, the stock markets in general have experienced substantial volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of individual companies. These broad market fluctuations may also adversely affect the trading price of our common stock. In addition, a recession, depression or other sustained adverse market event could materially and adversely affect our business and the value of our common stock. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company’s securities, stockholders have often instituted class action securities litigation against such companies. Furthermore, market volatility may lead to increased shareholder activism if we experience a market valuation that activists believe is not reflective of our intrinsic value. Activist campaigns that contest or conflict with our strategic direction or seek changes in the composition of our board of directors could have an adverse effect on our operating results, financial condition and cash flows.
Removed paragraphs (3)
Previous report
During the course of any intellectual property litigation, there could be public announcements of the initiation of the litigation as well as results of hearings, rulings on motions, and other interim proceedings in the litigation. If securities analysts or investors regard these announcements as negative, the perceived value of our existing products, programs or intellectual property could be diminished. Accordingly, the market price of shares of our common stock may decline. Such announcements could also harm our reputation or the market for our future products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Previous report
Even if we establish infringement, the court may decide not to grant an injunction against further infringing activity and instead award only monetary damages, which may or may not be an adequate remedy. Furthermore, because of the substantial amount of discovery required in connection with intellectual property litigation, there is a risk that some of our confidential information could be compromised by disclosure during this type of litigation. There could also be public announcements of the results of hearings, motions or other interim proceedings or developments. If securities analysts or investors perceive these results to be negative, it could have an adverse effect on the price of our common stock. Moreover, we cannot assure you that we will have sufficient financial or other resources to file and pursue such infringement claims, which typically last for years before they are concluded. Even if we ultimately prevail in such claims, the monetary cost of such litigation and the diversion of the attention of our management and scientific personnel could outweigh any benefit we receive as a result of the proceedings.
Previous report
Disruptions at the FDA, the SEC, and other government agencies caused by funding shortages or global health concerns could hinder their ability to hire and retain key leadership and other personnel, or otherwise prevent new or modified products from being developed, approved or commercialized in a timely manner or at all, or otherwise prevent
Reworded paragraphs (25)
Previous wording
Until recently, we did not have any products approved for sale, we have not generated significant revenue from the sale of products, we have incurred significant net losses since the company’s formation and we have funded our operations primarily from the sale and issuance of redeemable convertible preferred stock, common stock, and the Merger. Our net losses were $41.5 million and $14.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. As of March 31, 2026, we had an accumulated deficit of $268.6 million. Additionally, the net losses we incur may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter such that a period-to-period comparison of our results of operations may not be a good indicator of our future performance. The size of our future net losses and our ability to potentially achieve profitability will depend, in part, on the rate of future growth of our expenses and our ability to generate revenue.
Current wording
Until recently, we did not have any products approved for sale, we have not generated significant revenue from the sale of products, we have incurred significant net losses since the company’s formation and we have funded our operations primarily from the sale and issuance of redeemable convertible preferred stock, common stock, and the Merger. Our net losses were $31.9 million and $14.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively, and $73.4 million and $29.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively. As of June 30, 2026, we had an accumulated deficit of $300.5 million. Additionally, the net losses we incur may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter such that a period-to-period comparison of our results of operations may not be a good indicator of our future performance. The size of our future net losses and our ability to potentially achieve profitability will depend, in part, on the rate of future growth of our expenses and our ability to generate revenue.
Previous wording
•create additional infrastructure to support our operations as a public company and our product development and commercialization efforts;
Current wording
•maintain or increase our infrastructure to support our operations as a public company and our product development and commercialization efforts;
Previous wording
Our business depends entirely on the development and commercialization of VIZZ and we do not have additional product candidates in our current development pipeline. If we are unable to successfully commercialize VIZZ, our business will be materially harmed.
Current wording
Our business depends entirely on the commercialization of VIZZ and we do not have additional product candidates in our current development pipeline. If we are unable to successfully commercialize VIZZ, our business will be materially harmed.
Previous wording
We have devoted a significant portion of our financial resources and business efforts to the development of LNZ100 (now VIZZ) and LNZ101, both of which include aceclidine as an active ingredient, for the treatment of presbyopia. Based on the results of our Phase 3 CLARITY trials, we selected LNZ100 as our lead product candidate, for which we submitted an NDA to FDA in August 2024. In July 2025, the FDA approved VIZZ (aceclidine ophthalmic solution) 1.44%, the first and only FDA-approved aceclidine-based eye drop for the treatment of presbyopia in adults, and we launched such product commercially in the U.S. in August 2025. Professional product sample distribution by the sales force to optometrists and ophthalmologists and commercial product shipments to customers via our e-pharmacy partner were initiated in October 2025, and product became broadly available in retail pharmacies beginning in November 2025. We do not currently have other product candidates in our development pipeline, and our success depends entirely on VIZZ. Until the approval of VIZZ, we did not have any products approved for sale and we have not generated significant revenue from the sale of products. Our ability to generate revenue and achieve profitability depends significantly on our ability, or any future collaborator’s ability, to achieve a number of objectives, including:
Current wording
We have devoted a significant portion of our financial resources and business efforts to the development of LNZ100 (now VIZZ) and LNZ101, both of which include aceclidine as an active ingredient, for the treatment of presbyopia. Based on the results of our Phase 3 CLARITY trials, we selected LNZ100 as our lead product candidate, for which we submitted an NDA to FDA in August 2024. In July 2025, the FDA approved VIZZ (aceclidine ophthalmic solution) 1.44%, the first and only FDA-approved aceclidine-based eye drop for the treatment of presbyopia in adults, and we launched such product commercially in the U.S. in August 2025. Professional product sample distribution by the sales force to optometrists and ophthalmologists and commercial product shipments to customers via our ePharmacy partner were initiated in October 2025, and product became broadly available in retail pharmacies beginning in November 2025. Beginning in July 2026, VIZZ became available via a telehealth platform, providing the convenience of an integrated online evaluation by independent licensed ECPs, ePharmacy prescription fulfillment and home delivery. We do not currently have other product candidates in our development pipeline, and our success depends entirely on VIZZ. Until the approval of VIZZ, we did not have any products approved for sale and we have not generated significant revenue from the sale of products. Our ability to generate revenue and achieve profitability depends significantly on our ability, or any future collaborator’s ability, to achieve a number of objectives, including:
Previous wording
VIZZ may fail to gain sufficient market acceptance by ECPs, patients, and others in the medical community. Presbyopia is typically self-diagnosed and self-managed with over-the-counter reading glasses, or managed, after evaluation by an ECP, with prescription reading or bifocal glasses or multifocal contact lenses. VIZZ requires a prescription by an ECP, which requires a visit to an ECP, which can be perceived to be more burdensome to an individual who has never previously visited an ECP and limit the number of prescriptions that are written. VIZZ may not demonstrate sufficient additional clinical benefits to ECPs or patients to justify a higher price compared to using glasses, which are potentially just a one-time purchase, and/or to offset the impact of side effects that patients may experience when using VIZZ. Some ECPs may also be deterred by the potential loss of revenue from the sale of contact lenses and glasses or feel uncomfortable prescribing a new product.
Current wording
VIZZ may fail to gain sufficient market acceptance by ECPs, patients, and others in the medical community. Presbyopia is typically self-diagnosed and self-managed with over-the-counter reading glasses, or managed, after evaluation by an ECP, with prescription reading or bifocal glasses or multifocal contact lenses. Prescriptions for VIZZ may be, amongst other methods, obtained from an ECP, which can be perceived to be more burdensome to an individual who has never previously visited an ECP and limit the number of prescriptions that are written. Further, while in July 2026 VIZZ became available via a telehealth platform, such method still requires an integrated online evaluation by an independent licensed ECP and ePharmacy prescription fulfillment, which may also be perceived as overly burdensome to a patient. VIZZ may not demonstrate sufficient additional clinical benefits to ECPs or patients to justify a higher price compared to using glasses, which are potentially just a one-time purchase, and/or to offset the impact of side effects that patients may experience when using VIZZ. Some ECPs may also be deterred by the potential loss of revenue from the sale of contact lenses and glasses or feel uncomfortable prescribing a new product.
Previous wording
For example, Vuity was launched by AbbVie and, in April 2025, a second pharmacologic option for the treatment of presbyopia was launched under the brand Qlosi. Marketed by Orasis, Qlosi was the second pilocarpine-based product for the treatment of presbyopia approved by the FDA. In August 2025, a generic version of Vuity was launched by Amneal Pharmaceuticals. In January 2026, the FDA approved Yuvezzi for the treatment of presbyopia, a carbochol-based eye-drop developed by Tenpoint Therapeutics, and subsequently launched in March 2026. While we believe Qlosi, Yuvezzi and the generic version of Vuity will face similar challenges to those faced by Vuity, if ECPs or patients prefer Qlosi, Yuvezzi or the generic to Vuity, our market opportunity may be limited.
Current wording
For example, Vuity was launched by AbbVie and, in April 2025, a second pharmacologic option for the treatment of presbyopia was launched under the brand Qlosi. Marketed by Orasis, Qlosi was the second pilocarpine-based product for the treatment of presbyopia approved by the FDA. In August 2025, a generic version of Vuity was launched by Amneal Pharmaceuticals. In January 2026, the FDA approved Yuvezzi for the treatment of presbyopia, a carbochol-based eye-drop developed by Tenpoint Therapeutics, which subsequently launched in March 2026. While we believe Qlosi, Yuvezzi and the generic version of Vuity will face similar challenges to those faced by Vuity, if ECPs or patients prefer Qlosi, Yuvezzi or the generic version of Vuity over VIZZ, our market opportunity may be limited.
Previous wording
Our commercial strategy is focused on targeting and partnering with the estimated 15,000 ECPs that prescribed over 85% of the pharmaceutical presbyopia prescriptions in the U.S. in 2022. If we are unable to obtain access to these ECPs or successfully demonstrate the clinical benefits of our products to adequate numbers of ECPs, our efforts to commercialize such products will be severely inhibited, which would have a material adverse effect on our business.
Current wording
While we launched our telehealth channel in July 2026, our commercial strategy is still primarily focused on targeting and partnering with the estimated 15,000 ECPs that prescribed over 85% of the pharmaceutical presbyopia prescriptions in the U.S. in 2022. If we are unable to obtain access to these ECPs or successfully demonstrate the clinical benefits of our products to adequate numbers of ECPs, our efforts to commercialize such products will be severely inhibited, which would have a material adverse effect on our business.
Previous wording
Additionally, a direct-to-consumer (“DTC”) strategy can potentially be extremely costly. We have deployed a targeted, cost-effective, digitally focused DTC strategy, but if we are unable to be sufficiently effective with a limited budget and are required to spend more than anticipated, we may need to raise more capital, divert resources from other strategies or just fail to reach the intended market. As a result, a DTC strategy that is not sufficiently cost-effective can have a material adverse effect on our business.
Current wording
Additionally, a direct-to-consumer (“DTC”) strategy can potentially be extremely costly. We have deployed a targeted and cost-effective DTC strategy, but if we are unable to be sufficiently effective with a limited budget and are required to spend more than anticipated, we may need to raise more capital, divert resources from other strategies or just fail to reach the intended market. As a result, a DTC strategy that is not sufficiently cost-effective can have a material adverse effect on our business.
Previous wording
If our product or future product candidates are associated with undesirable side effects or have unexpected characteristics in nonclinical studies or clinical trials when used alone or in combination with other approved products or investigational new drugs, we may decide or be required to perform additional clinical studies or to interrupt, delay or abandon our development or limit development to more narrow uses or subpopulations in which the undesirable side effects or other characteristics are less prevalent, less severe or more acceptable from a risk-benefit perspective. Treatment-related side effects could also affect patient recruitment or the ability of enrolled subjects to complete the clinical trial, or result in potential product liability claims. Any of these occurrences may prevent us from achieving or maintaining market acceptance of the affected product candidate and may harm our business, financial condition, and prospects significantly. Moreover, if we elect, or are required, to not initiate, delay, suspend or terminate any future clinical trial of any of our product candidates, the commercial prospects of such product candidates may be harmed and our ability to generate product revenue from any of these product candidates may be delayed or eliminated. Any of these occurrences may harm our ability to develop other product candidates, and may harm our business, financial condition, and prospects significantly.
Current wording
If our product or future product candidates are associated with undesirable side effects or have unexpected characteristics in nonclinical studies or clinical trials when used alone or in combination with other approved products or investigational new drugs, we may decide or be required to perform additional clinical studies or to interrupt, delay or abandon our development or limit development to more narrow uses or subpopulations in which the undesirable side effects or other characteristics are less prevalent, less severe or more acceptable from a risk-benefit perspective. Treatment-related side effects could also affect patient recruitment or the ability of enrolled subjects to complete the clinical trial, or result in potential product liability claims. Any of these occurrences may prevent us from achieving or maintaining market acceptance of the affected product candidate and may harm our business, financial condition, and prospects significantly.
Previous wording
If significant adverse events or other side effects are observed in any of our future clinical trials, we may have difficulty recruiting patients to the clinical trials, patients may drop out of our clinical trials, or we may be required to abandon the clinical trials or our development efforts of that product candidate altogether. We, the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities, or an IRE may suspend clinical trials of a product candidate at any time for various reasons, including a belief that subjects in such clinical trials are being exposed to unacceptable health risks or adverse side effects. Some potential therapeutics developed in the biotechnology industry that initially showed therapeutic promise in early-stage clinical trials have later been found to cause side effects that prevented their further development. Even if the side effects do not preclude the product candidate from obtaining or maintaining marketing approval, undesirable side effects may inhibit market acceptance due to its tolerability versus other therapies. Any of these developments could materially harm our business, financial condition, and prospects.
Current wording
If significant adverse events or other side effects are observed in any of our future clinical trials, we may have difficulty recruiting patients to the clinical trials, patients may drop out of our clinical trials, or we may be required to abandon the clinical trials or our development efforts of that product candidate altogether. We, the FDA or other comparable regulatory authorities, or an IRB may suspend clinical trials of a product candidate at any time for various reasons, including a belief that subjects in such clinical trials are being exposed to unacceptable health risks or adverse side effects. Some potential therapeutics developed in the biotechnology industry that initially showed therapeutic promise in early-stage clinical trials have later been found to cause side effects that prevented their further development. Even if the side effects do not preclude the product candidate from obtaining or maintaining marketing approval, undesirable side effects may inhibit market acceptance due to its tolerability versus other therapies. Any of these developments could materially harm our business, financial condition, and prospects.
Previous wording
Changes in either the patent laws or interpretation of the patent laws in the U.S. and other countries may diminish the value of our patents or narrow the scope of our patent protection. For example, the America Invents Act created new administrative post-grant proceedings, including post-grant review, inter partes review, and derivation proceedings that allow third parties to challenge the validity of issued patents. This applies to all of our U.S. patents, even those issued before March 16, 2013. Because of a lower evidentiary standard in USPTO proceedings compared to the evidentiary standard in U.S. federal courts necessary to invalidate a patent claim, a third party could potentially provide evidence in a USPTO proceeding sufficient for the USPTO to hold a claim invalid even though the same evidence would be insufficient to invalidate the claim if first presented in a district court action. In addition to increasing uncertainty with regard to our ability to obtain patents in the future, this combination of events has created uncertainty with respect to the value of patents, once obtained. Depending on decisions by the U.S. Congress, the federal courts, and the USPTO, the laws and regulations governing patents could change in unpredictable ways that could weaken our ability to obtain new patents or to enforce our existing patents and patents that we might obtain in the future.
Current wording
Changes in either the patent laws or interpretation of the patent laws in the U.S. and other countries may diminish the value of our patents or narrow the scope of our patent protection. For example, the America Invents Act created new administrative post-grant proceedings, including post-grant review, inter partes review, and derivation proceedings that allow third parties to challenge the validity of issued patents. This applies to all of our U.S. patents, even those issued before March 16, 2013. Because of a lower evidentiary standard in USPTO proceedings compared to the evidentiary standard in U.S. federal courts necessary to invalidate a patent claim, a third party could potentially provide evidence in a
Previous wording
Furthermore, the laws of some foreign countries do not protect proprietary rights to the same extent or in the same manner as the laws within the U.S. We may need to share our trade secrets and proprietary know-how with current or future partners, collaborators, contractors and others located in countries at heightened risk of theft of trade secrets, including through direct intrusion by private parties or foreign actors, and those affiliated with or controlled by state actors. As a result, we may encounter significant problems in protecting and defending our intellectual property both in the U.S. and abroad. In addition, some courts inside and outside the U.S. are sometimes less willing or unwilling to protect trade secrets.
Current wording
Furthermore, the laws of some foreign countries do not protect proprietary rights to the same extent or in the same manner as the laws within the U.S. We may need to share our trade secrets and proprietary know-how with current or future partners, collaborators, contractors and others located in countries at heightened risk of theft of trade secrets, including through direct intrusion by private parties or foreign actors, and those affiliated with or controlled by state actors. As a result, we may encounter significant problems in protecting and defending our intellectual property both in the U.S. and abroad. In addition, some courts inside and outside the U.S. are sometimes less willing or unwilling to protect trade secrets. If we choose to go to court to stop a third party from using any of our trade secrets, we may incur substantial costs. Even if we are successful, these types of lawsuits may consume our time and other resources. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Previous wording
VIZZ and any future product candidates we may seek to develop, and the activities associated with their development and commercialization, including their design, testing, manufacture, safety, efficacy, recordkeeping, labeling, storage, approval, advertising, promotion, sale, distribution, import and export are subject to comprehensive regulation by the FDA and other regulatory agencies in the U.S. and by comparable foreign regulatory authorities. Before we can commercialize any of our product candidates, we must obtain marketing approval. In July 2025, the FDA approved VIZZ (aceclidine ophthalmic solution) 1.44%, the first and only FDA-approved aceclidine-based eye drop for the treatment of presbyopia in adults, and we launched such product commercially in the U.S. in August 2025. Professional product sample distribution by the sales force to optometrists and ophthalmologists and commercial product shipments to customers via our e-pharmacy partner were initiated in October 2025, and product became broadly available in retail pharmacies beginning in November 2025.
Current wording
VIZZ and any future product candidates we may seek to develop, and the activities associated with their development and commercialization, including their design, testing, manufacture, safety, efficacy, recordkeeping, labeling, storage, approval, advertising, promotion, sale, distribution, import and export are subject to comprehensive regulation by the FDA and other regulatory agencies in the U.S. and by comparable foreign regulatory authorities. Before we can commercialize any of our product candidates, we must obtain marketing approval. In July 2025, the FDA approved VIZZ (aceclidine ophthalmic solution) 1.44%, the first and only FDA-approved aceclidine-based eye drop for the treatment of presbyopia in adults, and we launched such product commercially in the U.S. in August 2025. Professional product sample distribution by the sales force to optometrists and ophthalmologists and commercial product shipments to customers via our ePharmacy partner were initiated in October 2025, and product became broadly available in retail pharmacies beginning in November 2025. We will require approval from applicable foreign regulatory authorities before we are able to market VIZZ in such foreign jurisdictions. Any future product candidate that we may seek to develop will require approval by the FDA and other comparable foreign regulatory authorities before we can commercialize such product.
Previous wording
Despite FDA approval of VIZZ, such product will be subject to ongoing regulatory requirements applicable to manufacturing, labeling, packaging, storage, advertising, promoting, sampling, record-keeping and submission of safety or other post-market information, among other things. Any regulatory approvals that we receive for our product candidates will require surveillance to monitor the safety and efficacy of the product candidate. The FDA may also require a REMS, limitations on the approved indicated uses for which the drug may be marketed or to the conditions of approval, or requirements that we conduct potentially costly post-market testing and surveillance studies, including Phase 4 trials and surveillance to monitor the quality, safety and efficacy of the drug. An unsuccessful post-marketing study or failure to complete such a study could result in order to approve our product candidates, which could entail requirements for a medication guide, physician communication plans or additional elements to ensure safe use, such as restricted distribution methods, patient registries and other risk minimization tools.
Current wording
Despite FDA approval of VIZZ, such product will be subject to ongoing regulatory requirements applicable to manufacturing, labeling, packaging, storage, advertising, promoting, sampling, record-keeping and submission of safety or other post-market information, among other things. Any regulatory approvals that we receive for our product candidates will require surveillance to monitor the safety and efficacy of the product candidate. The FDA may also require a REMS, limitations on the approved indicated uses for which the drug may be marketed or to the conditions of approval, or requirements that we conduct potentially costly post-market testing and surveillance studies, including Phase 4 trials and surveillance to monitor the quality, safety and efficacy of the drug. An unsuccessful post-marketing study or failure to complete such a study could result in the FDA imposing additional requirements in order to approve our product candidates, which could entail requirements for a medication guide, physician communication plans or additional elements to ensure safe use, such as restricted distribution methods, patient registries and other risk minimization tools.
Previous wording
In June 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court overruled the Chevron doctrine, which gives deference to regulatory agencies’ statutory interpretations in litigation against federal government agencies, such as the FDA, where the law is ambiguous. This landmark Supreme Court decision may invite more companies and other stakeholders to bring lawsuits against the FDA to challenge longstanding decisions and policies of the FDA, including FDA’s statutory interpretations of market exclusivities and the “substantial evidence” requirements for drug approvals, which could undermine the FDA’s authority, lead to uncertainties in the industry, and disrupt the FDA’s normal operations, any of which could delay the FDA’s review of our regulatory submissions. Further, the current administration, including changes in the leadership at the FDA and other federal agencies, may issue new policies and regulations that can impact the compliance status of our product candidate. We cannot predict the full impact of this decision, future judicial challenges brought against the FDA, or the nature or extent of government regulation that may arise from future legislation or administrative action.
Current wording
This landmark Supreme Court decision may invite more companies and other stakeholders to bring lawsuits against the FDA to challenge longstanding decisions and policies of the FDA, including FDA’s statutory interpretations of market exclusivities and the “substantial evidence” requirements for drug approvals, which could undermine the FDA’s authority, lead to uncertainties in the industry, and disrupt the FDA’s normal operations, any of which could delay the FDA’s review of our regulatory submissions. Further, the current administration, including changes in the leadership at the FDA and other federal agencies, may issue new policies and regulations that can impact the compliance status of our product candidate. We cannot predict the full impact of this decision, future judicial challenges brought against the FDA, or the nature or extent of government regulation that may arise from future legislation or administrative action.
Previous wording
There has been increasing legislative and enforcement interest in the U.S. with respect to specialty drug pricing practices. In August 2022, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (the “IRA”), which includes prescription drug provisions that have significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry and Medicare beneficiaries, including allowing the federal government to negotiate a maximum fair price for certain high-priced single source Medicare drugs, imposing penalties and excise tax for manufacturers that fail to comply with the drug price negotiation requirements, requiring inflation rebates for all Medicare Part B and Part D drugs, with limited exceptions, if their drug prices increase faster than inflation, and redesigning Medicare Part D to reduce out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for beneficiaries, among other changes. Only high-expenditure single-source drugs that have been approved for at least 7 years (11 years for single-source biologics) can qualify for negotiation, with the negotiated price taking effect two years after the selection year. For 2026, CMS selected 10 high-cost Medicare Part D drugs in 2023 and the negotiated maximum fair price for each drug has been announced. CMS has selected 15 additional Medicare Part D drugs for negotiated maximum fair pricing in 2027. For 2028, up to an additional 15 drugs, which may be covered under either Medicare Part B or Part D, will be selected, and for 2029 and subsequent years, up to 20 additional Part B or Part D drugs will be selected. Various industry stakeholders, including pharmaceutical companies and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, have initiated lawsuits against the federal government asserting that the price negotiation provisions of the IRA are unconstitutional. Further, the current administration has issued executive orders focused on decreasing prescription drug prices, including directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a mechanism through which American patients can buy drugs directly from manufacturers who sell at a most-favored-nation price and directing the U.S. Trade Representative and Secretary of Commerce to take action to ensure foreign countries are not engaged in practices that purposefully and unfairly undercut market prices and drive price hikes in the U.S. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was signed into law in July 2025, includes provisions that will impact the U.S. healthcare system in various ways, including by cuts to Medicaid and introducing new participant work and eligibility requirements for Medicaid coverage, which are expected to significantly change the administration and applicability of Medicaid coverage. In November 2025, CMS announced a voluntary initiative called the GENEROUS Model (GENErating cost Reductions for U.S. Medicaid Model) to introduce the option of most-favored-nation pricing to the Medicaid program, whereby a drug manufacturer may voluntarily offer supplementa…
Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.
Current wording
There has been increasing legislative and enforcement interest in the U.S. with respect to specialty drug pricing practices. In August 2022, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (the “IRA”), which includes prescription drug provisions that have significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry and Medicare beneficiaries, including allowing the federal government to negotiate a maximum fair price for certain high-priced single source Medicare drugs, imposing penalties and excise tax for manufacturers that fail to comply with the drug price negotiation requirements, requiring inflation rebates for all Medicare Part B and Part D drugs, with limited exceptions, if their drug prices increase faster than inflation, and redesigning Medicare Part D to reduce out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for beneficiaries, among other changes. Only high-expenditure single-source drugs that have been approved for at least 7 years (11 years for single-source biologics) can qualify for negotiation, with the negotiated price taking effect two years after the selection year. For 2026, CMS selected 10 high-cost Medicare Part D drugs in 2023 and the negotiated maximum fair price for each drug has been announced. CMS has selected 15 additional Medicare Part D drugs for negotiated maximum fair pricing in 2027. For 2028, CMS selected 15 additional drugs in January 2026, marking the first time drugs payable under Medicare Part B, rather than only Part D, were included in the negotiation program, and for 2029 and subsequent years, up to 20 additional Part B or Part D drugs will be selected. Various industry stakeholders, including pharmaceutical companies and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, have initiated lawsuits against the federal government asserting that the price negotiation provisions of the IRA are unconstitutional; to date, manufacturers have not prevailed on the merits in any such challenge, and in May 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review several of these cases, leaving in place lower court decisions upholding the program, although a small number of challenges remain pending in other federal appellate courts. Further, the current administration has issued executive orders focused on decreasing prescription drug prices, including directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a mechanism through which American patients can buy drugs directly from manufacturers who sell at a most-favored-nation price and directing the U.S. Trade Representative and Secretary of Commerce to take action to ensure foreign countries are not engaged in practices that purposefully and unfairly undercut market prices and drive price hikes in the U.S. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was signed into law in July 2025, includes provisions that will impact the U.S. healthcare system in various ways, including by cuts to Medicaid and introducing new participant work and eligibility requirements for Medicaid coverag…
Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.
Previous wording
Because of the breadth of these laws and the narrowness of available statutory exceptions and regulatory safe harbors, it is possible that some of our business activities, including our advisory board arrangements with physicians, some of whom receive stock or stock options as compensation for services provided, and any sales and marketing activities after a product candidate has been approved for marketing in the U.S., could be subject to legal challenge and enforcement actions. If our operations are found to be in violation of any of the federal and state laws described above or any other governmental regulations that apply to us, we may be subject to significant civil, criminal, and administrative penalties, including, without limitation, damages, fines, disgorgement, imprisonment, additional reporting obligations and oversight if we become subject to a corporate integrity agreement or other agreement to resolve allegations of non-compliance with these laws, and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations, any of which could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our results of operations.
Current wording
Because of the breadth of these laws and the narrowness of available statutory exceptions and regulatory safe harbors, it is possible that some of our business activities, including our advisory board arrangements with physicians, some of whom receive stock or stock options as compensation for services provided, our arrangement with a telehealth platform to provide online evaluations by independent licensed ECPs and ePharmacy prescription fulfillment for VIZZ, which is also subject to state laws governing the corporate practice of medicine, fee-splitting, and the licensure of prescribers and pharmacies, and any sales and marketing activities after a product candidate has been approved for marketing in the U.S., could be subject to legal challenge and enforcement actions. If our operations are found to be in violation of any of the federal and state laws described above or any other governmental regulations that apply to us, we may be subject to significant civil, criminal, and administrative penalties, including, without limitation, damages, fines, disgorgement, imprisonment, additional reporting obligations and oversight if we become subject to a corporate integrity agreement or other agreement to resolve allegations of non-compliance with these laws, and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations, any of which could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our results of operations.
Previous wording
Among other matters, U.S. and foreign anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, export control, sanctions, and other trade laws and regulations, which are collectively referred to as Trade Laws, prohibit companies and their employees, agents, clinical research organizations, legal counsel, accountants, consultants, contractors, and other partners from authorizing, promising, offering, providing, soliciting, or receiving directly or indirectly, corrupt or improper payments or anything else of value to or from recipients in the public or private sector. Violations of trade laws can result in substantial criminal fines and civil penalties, imprisonment, the loss of trade privileges, debarment, tax reassessments, breach of contract and fraud litigation, reputational harm, and other consequences. We have direct or indirect interactions with officials and employees of government agencies or government-affiliated hospitals, universities, and other organizations. We also expect our non-
Current wording
Among other matters, U.S. and foreign anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, export control, sanctions, and other trade laws and regulations, which are collectively referred to as Trade Laws, prohibit companies and their employees, agents, clinical research organizations, legal counsel, accountants, consultants, contractors, and other partners from authorizing, promising, offering, providing, soliciting, or receiving directly or indirectly, corrupt or improper payments or anything else of value to or from recipients in the public or private sector. Violations of trade laws can result in substantial criminal fines and civil penalties, imprisonment, the loss of trade privileges, debarment, tax reassessments, breach of contract and fraud litigation, reputational harm, and other consequences. We have direct or indirect interactions with officials and employees of government agencies or government-affiliated hospitals, universities, and other organizations. We also expect our non-U.S. activities to increase over time. We plan to engage third parties for clinical trials or to obtain necessary permits, licenses, patent registrations, and other regulatory approvals and we can be held liable for the corrupt or other illegal activities of our personnel, agents, or partners, even if we do not explicitly authorize or have prior knowledge of such activities.
Previous wording
In the U.S., in addition to HIPAA, HITECH and state laws addressing health-related information, numerous federal and state laws and regulations govern the collection, use, disclosure, and other processing of information relating to individuals. In California, the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) requires covered companies to provide disclosures to consumers about such companies’ data collection, use and sharing practices, provide such consumers ways to opt-out of certain sales or transfers of personal information, and provide consumers with additional causes of action in data breach situations. The CCPA went into effect on January 1, 2020, and was modified significantly by the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”), which was approved by California voters in the November 3, 2020 election and became effective January 1, 2023. The CCPA has prompted numerous proposals for federal and state privacy legislation. Numerous U.S. states have proposed, and in certain cases enacted, laws addressing privacy and cybersecurity matters. Many of these laws are comprehensive privacy statutes imposing obligations similar to the CCPA. Certain U.S. states also have enacted laws and regulations addressing specific subject matter, such as Washington’s My Health, My Data Act, which, among other things, provides for a private right of action.
Current wording
In the U.S., in addition to HIPAA, HITECH and state laws addressing health-related information, numerous federal and state laws and regulations govern the collection, use, disclosure, and other processing of information relating to individuals. In California, the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) requires covered companies to provide disclosures to consumers about such companies’ data collection, use and sharing practices, provide such consumers ways to opt-out of certain sales or transfers of personal information, and provide consumers with additional causes of action in data breach situations. The CCPA went into effect on January 1, 2020, and was modified significantly by the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”), which was approved by California voters in the November 3, 2020 election and became effective January 1, 2023. The CCPA has prompted numerous proposals for federal and state privacy legislation. Numerous U.S. states have proposed, and in certain cases enacted, laws addressing privacy and cybersecurity matters. Many of these laws are comprehensive privacy statutes imposing obligations similar to the CCPA. Certain U.S. states also have enacted laws and regulations addressing specific subject matter, such as Washington’s My Health, My Data Act, which, among other things, provides for a private right of action and Vermont’s Data Privacy and Online Surveillance Act, which takes effect in 2028 and imposes specific restrictions on the collection, use and sale of consumer health data.
Previous wording
Compliance with U.S. and international laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity could require us to take on more onerous obligations in our contracts, restrict our ability to collect, use and disclose data, or in some cases, impact our ability to operate in certain jurisdictions, and may increase our costs of doing business and require us to change our policies and practices. Any actual or alleged failure to comply with U.S. or international laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection, or cybersecurity could result in governmental investigations, proceedings, and enforcement actions (which could include civil or criminal penalties), private litigation or adverse publicity, harm to our reputation, and could negatively affect our operating results and business. Moreover, clinical trial subjects about whom we or our potential collaborators obtain information, as well as the providers who share this information with us, may contractually limit our ability to use and disclose the information or impose other obligations or restrictions in connection with our use, retention, and other processing of information, and we may otherwise face contractual restrictions applicable to these activities. Claims that we have violated individuals’ privacy rights, failed to comply with data protection laws, or
Current wording
Compliance with U.S. and international laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity could require us to take on more onerous obligations in our contracts, restrict our ability to collect, use and disclose data, or in some cases, impact our ability to operate in certain jurisdictions, and may increase our costs of doing business and require us to change our policies and practices. Any actual or alleged failure to comply with U.S. or international laws and regulations relating to privacy, data protection, or cybersecurity could result in governmental investigations, proceedings, and enforcement actions (which could include civil or criminal penalties), private litigation or adverse publicity, harm to our reputation, and could negatively affect our operating results and business. Moreover, clinical trial subjects about whom we or our potential collaborators obtain information, as well as the providers who share this information with us, may contractually limit our ability to use and disclose the information or impose other obligations or restrictions in connection with our use, retention, and other processing of information, and we may otherwise face contractual restrictions applicable to these activities. Claims that we have violated individuals’ privacy rights, failed to comply with data protection laws, or breached our contractual obligations, even if we are not found liable, could be expensive and time-consuming to defend and could result in adverse publicity that could harm our business.
Previous wording
In April 2022, we entered into the CORXEL License, pursuant to which we granted CORXEL an exclusive license to certain of our intellectual property rights to develop, use, import, and sell products containing VIZZ or LNZ101 (“LNZ Products”) for the treatment of presbyopia in humans in mainland China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Macau Special Administrative Region, and Taiwan (collectively, “Greater China”) and the first right of negotiation for CORXEL to license any other product that we develop or commercialize containing aceclidine or brimonidine for uses outside of the treatment of presbyopia in Greater China. Under the terms of the CORXEL License, we shall refrain from developing or commercializing any competing product, or knowingly enabling a third party to develop or commercialize a product containing aceclidine or brimonidine that would reasonably be expected to result in off-label sales of such products, for the treatment of presbyopia in humans in Greater China. We have entered into similar agreements with Lotus Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“Lotus”) to commercialize VIZZ in the Republic of Korea and certain countries in Southeast Asia (the “Lotus License”), with Laboratoires Théa (“Laboratoires Théa”) to commercialize VIZZ in Canada (the “Théa License”), and with Lunatus Global Medical Supplies (“Lunatus” and together with CORXEL, Lotus and Laboratoires Théa, our “License Partners”) to commercialize VIZZ in the Middle East (the “Lunatus License” and together with the CORXEL License, the Lotus License and the Théa License, the “License Agreements,” and the territories covered by the License Agreements, the “Licensed Territories”).
Current wording
In April 2022, we entered into the Everest License (formerly referred to as the “CORXEL License”), pursuant to which we granted CORXEL an exclusive license to certain of our intellectual property rights to develop, use, import, and sell products containing VIZZ or LNZ101 (“LNZ Products”) for the treatment of presbyopia in humans in mainland China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Macau Special Administrative Region, and Taiwan (collectively, “Greater China”) and the first right of negotiation for CORXEL to license any other product that we develop or commercialize containing aceclidine or brimonidine for uses outside of the treatment of presbyopia in Greater China. In June 2026, Everest Medicines (“Everest”) entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with CORXEL to acquire the rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize VIZZ in Greater China. As part of this agreement, the rights and obligations and certain related ancillary agreements under the Everest License entered into by CORXEL in April 2022 were assigned and transferred to Everest. Under the terms of the Everest License, we shall refrain from developing or commercializing any competing product, or knowingly enabling a third party to develop or commercialize a product containing aceclidine or brimonidine that would reasonably be expected to result in off-label sales of such products, for the treatment of presbyopia in humans in Greater China. We have entered into similar agreements with Lotus Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“Lotus”) to commercialize VIZZ in the Republic of Korea and certain countries in Southeast Asia (the “Lotus License”), with
Previous wording
The market price of our common stock has been, and may continue to be, subject to significant fluctuations. For example, from April 1, 2024 through March 31, 2026, the closing price for our common stock ranged from a low of $8.29 to a high of $49.05 per share. Some of the factors that may cause the market price of our common stock to fluctuate include:
Current wording
The market price of our common stock has been, and may continue to be, subject to significant fluctuations. For example, from April 1, 2024 through June 30, 2026, the closing price for our common stock ranged from a low of $5.51 to a high of $49.05 per share. Some of the factors that may cause the market price of our common stock to fluctuate include:
Previous wording
Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a merger, acquisition or other change in control of us that stockholders may consider favorable, including transactions in which our common stockholders might otherwise receive a premium price for their shares. These provisions could also limit the price that investors might be willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock, thereby depressing the market price of our common stock. In addition, because our board of directors will be responsible for appointing the members of our management team, these provisions may frustrate or prevent any attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management by
Current wording
Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a merger, acquisition or other change in control of us that stockholders may consider favorable, including transactions in which our common stockholders might otherwise receive a premium price for their shares. These provisions could also limit the price that investors might be willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock, thereby depressing the market price of our common stock. In addition, because our board of directors will be responsible for appointing the members of our management team, these provisions may frustrate or prevent any attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management by making it more difficult for stockholders to replace members of our board of directors. Among other things, these provisions:
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2025, we had federal and state net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards of $178.9 million and $12.4 million, respectively. The federal NOL carryforwards of $178.9 million may be carried forward indefinitely. State NOL carryforwards totaling $12.4 million begin to expire in 2040, unless previously utilized. In addition, we had federal and R&D credit carryforwards totaling $8.3 million, which will begin to expire in 2040 unless previously utilized.
Current wording
As of December 31, 2025, we had federal and state net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards of $178.9 million and $12.4 million, respectively. The federal NOL carryforwards of $178.9 million may be carried forward indefinitely. State NOL carryforwards totaling $12.4 million begin to expire in 2040, unless previously utilized. In addition, we had federal R&D credit carryforwards totaling $8.3 million, which will begin to expire in 2040 unless previously utilized.
Previous wording
Under current law, U.S. federal NOLs generated in taxable periods beginning after December 31, 2017, may be carried forward indefinitely, but the deductibility of such NOL carryforwards is limited to 80% of taxable income for taxable periods beginning after December 31, 2020. Many state jurisdictions conform to federal law for this purpose or have similar provisions that limit the deductibility of state NOL carryforwards in a taxable period. For example, California has temporarily disallowed the use of NOLs to offset California taxable income prior to 2027. In addition, under Sections 382 and 383 of the Code, U.S. federal NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes may become subject to an annual limitation in the event of certain cumulative changes in ownership. An “ownership change” pursuant to Section 382 of the Code generally occurs if one or more stockholders or groups of stockholders who own at least 5% of a company’s stock increase their ownership by more than 50 percentage points (by value) over their lowest ownership percentage within a rolling three-year period. We believe we underwent an ownership change in 2024, which resulted in a limitation that reduced the availability of our NOL and tax credit carryforwards. We adjusted the carryforward attributes accordingly, with an offsetting adjustment to the valuation allowance. Subsequent ownership changes may further limit our ability to utilize NOL and tax credit carryforwards in future years. To the extent we have experienced or will experience an ownership change(s), our ability to utilize our NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes to offset future taxable income or tax liabilities may be limited. If we earn taxable income, such limitations could result in increased future income tax liability to us, and our future cash flows could be adversely affected.
Current wording
Under current law, U.S. federal NOLs generated in taxable periods beginning after December 31, 2017, may be carried forward indefinitely, but the deductibility of such NOL carryforwards is limited to 80% of taxable income for taxable periods beginning after December 31, 2020. Many state jurisdictions conform to federal law for this purpose or have similar or other provisions that limit the deductibility of state NOL carryforwards in a taxable period. For example, California has temporarily disallowed the use of NOLs to offset California taxable income prior to 2027. In addition, under Sections 382 and 383 of the Code, U.S. federal NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes may become subject to an annual limitation in the event of certain cumulative changes in ownership. An “ownership change” pursuant to Section 382 of the Code generally occurs if one or more stockholders or groups of stockholders who own at least 5% of a company’s stock increase their ownership by more than 50 percentage points (by value) over their lowest ownership percentage within a rolling three-year period. We believe we underwent an ownership change in 2024, which resulted in a limitation that reduced the availability of our NOL and tax credit carryforwards. We adjusted the carryforward attributes accordingly, with an offsetting adjustment to the valuation allowance. Subsequent ownership changes may further limit our ability to utilize NOL and tax credit carryforwards in future years. To the extent we have experienced or will experience an ownership change(s), our ability to utilize our NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes to offset future taxable income or tax liabilities may be limited. If we earn taxable income, such limitations could result in increased future income tax liability to us, and our future cash flows could be adversely affected.
Rearranged current paragraphs (4)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Moreover, if we elect, or are required, to not initiate, delay, suspend or terminate any future clinical trial of any of our product candidates, the commercial prospects of such product candidates may be harmed and our ability to generate product revenue from any of these product candidates may be delayed or eliminated. Any of these occurrences may harm our ability to develop other product candidates, and may harm our business, financial condition, and prospects significantly.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
USPTO proceeding sufficient for the USPTO to hold a claim invalid even though the same evidence would be insufficient to invalidate the claim if first presented in a district court action. In addition to increasing uncertainty with regard to our ability to obtain patents in the future, this combination of events has created uncertainty with respect to the value of patents, once obtained. Depending on decisions by the U.S. Congress, the federal courts, and the USPTO, the laws and regulations governing patents could change in unpredictable ways that could weaken our ability to obtain new patents or to enforce our existing patents and patents that we might obtain in the future.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
In June 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court overruled the Chevron doctrine, which gives deference to regulatory agencies’ statutory interpretations in litigation against federal government agencies, such as the FDA, where the law is ambiguous.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Laboratoires Théa (“Laboratoires Théa”) to commercialize VIZZ in Canada (the “Théa License”), with Lunatus Global Medical Supplies (“Lunatus”) to commercialize VIZZ in the Middle East (the “Lunatus License”), and Arrotex Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd (“Arrotex”) to commercialize VIZZ in Australia and New Zealand (the “Arrotex License”), and together with Everest, Lotus, Laboratoires Théa and Lunatus, our “License Partners,” and together with the Everest License, the Lotus License, the Théa License and the Lunatus License, the “License Agreements,” and the territories covered by the License Agreements, the “Licensed Territories”.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (3)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
If we choose to go to court to stop a third party from using any of our trade secrets, we may incur substantial costs. Even if we are successful, these types of lawsuits may consume our time and other resources. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
We will require approval from applicable foreign regulatory authorities before we are able to market VIZZ in such foreign jurisdictions. Any future product candidate that we may seek to develop will require approval by the FDA and other comparable foreign regulatory authorities before we can commercialize such product.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
U.S. activities to increase over time. We plan to engage third parties for clinical trials or to obtain necessary permits, licenses, patent registrations, and other regulatory approvals and we can be held liable for the corrupt or other illegal activities of our personnel, agents, or partners, even if we do not explicitly authorize or have prior knowledge of such activities.