Faricimab is in clinical development for the treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). AMD is an eye condition that blurs the centre of a person’s vision and is the most common cause of sight loss in the developed world. There are two types of AMD – wet and dry. Wet AMD develops when a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) causes abnormal blood vessels to grow in the back of the eye which leak blood or fluid that results in a rapid loss of central vision. Current treatment for wet AMD involves monthly injections of anti-VEGF agents to maintain vision. There is a need for treatments that have greater durability in order to reduce the treatment burden on patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals and healthcare systems.
Faricimab is an antibody given by intravitreal injection that binds to both VEGF-A and angiopoietin-2 which results in blood vessels becoming more stable, leaking less blood and fluid and reduced inflammation. Faricimab has been shown in clinical trials to have an extended durability compared to other anti-VEGF agents so fewer injections will be required. If licensed, faricimab will offer an additional treatment option for patients with neovascular AMD.
Drugs
December 2020
Clobetasol propionate for postoperative pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery
Clobetasol propionate ophthalmic nanoemulsion is in development for the treatment of post-operative pain or inflammation following cataract surgery. A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens, which can develop slowly and progress to general loss of transparency, which may lead to functional impairment and visual deterioration. Cataract surgery is the only effective treatment to improve or maintain vision, however, inflammation and pain are common difficulties following this treatment.