28 January 2025
The Macular Society has described the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) decision to reject a treatment for late-stage dry AMD as “undoubtedly disappointing news.”
Pegcetacoplan, also known as Syfovre, became the first drug to receive US Food and Drug Administration approval for the treatment of dry AMD in 2023.
However, drug manufacturer Apellis revealed that the MHRA had failed to approve pegcetacoplan for the treatment of geographic atrophy.
While the regulator acknowledged the effect of Syfovre in slowing geographic atrophy progression, concerns were expressed over whether the drug meaningfully improved patients’ ability to see and manage daily tasks.
Director of research at the Macular Society, Dr Peter Bloomfield, described the development as “undoubtedly disappointing news” for people living with geographic atrophy.
“However, we want to reassure patients that this is not the end of the road. There are several promising treatments in development, and we remain committed to supporting research and advocating for better options in the future,” he emphasised.
Bloomfield added that the Macular Society will continue to fund research to drive progress in this area.
"For now, our priority is to continue providing support to those affected by geographic atrophy and ensure they have access to the resources and information they need,” he said.
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