Iluvien has been used to treat a diabetic macular oedema (DME) patient for the first time since the product became commercially available, it was revealed in a press release this week.

Alimera Sciences announced the 190 micrograms intravitreal implant, approved for use in six European countries, was inserted in a 67-year-old man who has suffered diabetes for over 20 years.

Each implant provides a therapeutic effect of up to 36 months by delivering sustained sub-microgram levels of fluocinolone acetonide (FAc). Iluvien is administered via an applicator that consists of a 25G needle, allowing for a self-sealing wound.

Professor Albert J. Augustin, professor and chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Karlsruhe, Germany and a member of 

's EAB, commented, “We are honoured to be the first hospital to offer this new sustained release treatment to those suffering from vision impairment associated with chronic DME considered insufficiently responsive to available therapies. Iluvien brings hope to many patients in Germany affected by this sight-robbing disease.”

Dan Myers, president and CEO of Alimera, stated, “Now chronic DME patients in both Germany and the UK have a long-acting, sustained release treatment option available to help improve their visual acuity.”

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Iluvien has been used to treat a diabetic macular oedema (DME) patient in the UK since the product became commercially available, it was revealed in a press release this week.