Iluvien investigated for dry AMD

A pilot study using Iluvien (an intravitreal insert delivering fluocinolone acetonide) to treat geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has begun enrolling patients, according to a statement from Alimera Sciences Inc, the developer of Iluvien.

The pilot study will assess the safety and efficacy of Iluvien 0.23 and 0.45 µg daily - intended to manage oxidative stress and arrest development of bilateral geographic atrophy - and compare the results with placebo. The study was initiated because miniaturized Iluvien was found to inhibit retinal degeneration in two animal models.

Iluvien, which is implanted during an out-patient procedure with a 25 G inserter, is currently in Phase III testing for the treatment of diabetic macular oedema (DME).