RP drug receives orphan drug designation

Fovea Pharmaceuticals has received designation as Orphan Medicinal Product from the European Commission for rh-RdCVF, its treatment for retinitis pigmentosa (RP).

In a study on an animal model of the disease, RdCVF was shown to improve the survival and functionality of retinal cone cells that are responsible for central vision and that are degenerating in patients with RP. The Orphan Drug Designation would entitle Fovea to exclusive marketing rights in European countries for a 10-year period, should it be the first company to receive marketing approval.

Fovea plans to start clinical trials in 2009.