Collaboration on development and promotion of glaucoma treatment

Acucela and Otsuka Pharmaceutical have entered into a definitive agreement for the joint development and promotion of OPA-656, an adenosine A2a receptor agonist under development for treating glaucoma.

“Over the last few years, Acucela and Otsuka have built a strong strategic partnership to jointly pursue development efforts to deliver two innovative ophthalmologic drugs to patients – Acucela discovered ACU-4429, being developed for dry aMD and Otsuka discovered rebamipide ophthalmic suspension, being developed for dry eye,” said Taro Iwamoto, president of Otsuka Pharmaceutical.

The compound is reported to have a new mechanism of action not seen in conventional glaucoma medications. It has been shown to lower IOP by stimulating aqueous humor outflow via trabecular meshwork by activating an adenosine A2a receptor.