New beta-blocker trialled

Othera Pharmaceuticals' topical beta blocker, OT-730, indicated for the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) in subjects with ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma, has begun a Phase I/II clinical trial for safety and efficacy.

The randomized multicentre study, in which the investigators will be masked, will segregate subjects into treatment groups receiving either 0.75% OT-730, 0.5% timolol maleate or placebo. Due to its unique chemical make-up, Othera is confident that OT-730 will not produce the systemic side effects commonly associated with beta-blockers. Indeed, during preclinical studies, OT-730 demonstrated a safety and IOP-lowering efficacy profile which was superior to that of timolol maleate.

Othera is also currently running a Phase II trial for OT-551, a small molecule to inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation due to disease, for dry age-related macular degeneration.