12 September 2016
The European Medicines Agency has approved a new medication to reduce the chances that diabetic patients undergoing cataract surgery will experience macular oedema.
The new drug, Novartis Pharmaceutical’s Nevanac 3mg eye drops, was granted the approval on the back of two studies to be presented at the European Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgeons Annual Congress this week (10–14 September, Copenhagen).
In contrast to other options, the Nevanac eye drops only need to be used once a day to reduce the risk of macular oedema, Novartis Pharmaceuticals global programme head, Eric Carlson told OT.
“This really reduces the treatment burden,” he added.
Macular oedema, which can result in irreversible vision loss, is the most common cause of sight loss following the surgical procedure.
With growing numbers of diabetic patients, more options to reduce the chances of macular oedema will ensure patients’ vision is protected, Mr Carlson highlighted.
“They can undergo a procedure to restore or improve vision that can cause a condition that reduces vision in the end,” he emphasised.
Image credit: Lynn Greyling
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