VKC treatment study under way

Novagali Pharma, a French biopharmaceutical company specializing in ophthalmology, has completed the enrollment for its phase III study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a potential treatment for vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).Enrollment for the international study was completed much earlier than expected, the company said, indicating an unmet need for a treatment.

The study will determine the efficacy of Nova22007, a topical Cyclosporine A cationic emulsion, to treat VKC, a severe form of chronic allergic conjunctivitis characterized by painful ocular discomfort and intense photophobia. The rare condition mostly affects children and young adults living in warm climates worldwide.

The drug is designed to deliver an "unmatched level" of drug absorption in eye tissues, the company said. It will be the first therapeutic product dedicated to the treatment of VKC.

The company said it also is poised to begin phase III clinical trials of the drug in Europe and the United States to treat dry eye.