Wet AMD 18-month data unveiled

Scottsdale, AZ-The 18-month data of a proprietary epiretinal brachytherapy (NeoVista) for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) were made public at the recent Retina Society annual meeting.

The study, which was initiated to test the safety and efficacy of the therapy when used in conjunction with bevacizumab (Avastin, Genentech), showed a marked advancement in mean visual acuity results at month 18; a limited number of patients required additional injections of bevacizumab, according to the company.

"We're very delighted with the latest data from our phase II study, as not only did the visual acuity improve in our patients over the long-term, but very few patients received additional injections as well," said John N. Hendrick, president and chief executive officer of NeoVista.

The therapy applies a targeted dose of beta radiation to the leaking blood vessels that affect central vision, along with two injections of an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent. Preliminary data show that the radiation therapy can be safe for both the patient and the physician, and may be able to restore the patient’s vision.