Ocriplasmin approved in EU for treatment of VMT

Leuven, Belgium-The European Commission has approved ocriplasmin (Jetrea, ThromboGenics) in the European Union for the treatment of vitreomacular traction (VMT), including when associated with macular hole of diameter less than or equal to 400 µm.

Alcon, a division of Novartis, acquired the rights to commercialize ocriplasmin outside the United States in March 2012. ThromboGenics retains the right to commercialize the drug in the United States. ThromboGenics launched ocriplasmin in the United States in mid-January 2013 where it is approved for the treatment of patients with symptomatic vitreomacular adhesion (VMA).

“Patients across Europe will now have access to our innovative drug for an important sight-threatening condition,” said Patrik De Haes, MD, chief executive officer of ThromboGenics. “VMT is a considerable unmet medical need and places a huge burden on patients across Europe who until now have had no treatment option other than watchful waiting or surgery.”

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