For many people who have experienced diabetic macular edema (DME), the future looks a little clearer. On August 10, 2012, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved use of the drug Lucentis for the treatment of DME. Developed by Genentech, Lucentis is the first and only FDA-approved medicine for the condition. Diabetic macular edema [...]
In one of the largest studies of its kind, JDRF has partnered with iCo Therapeutics to investigate a potential new drug that could, if successful, broaden treatment options for people living with DME. The Phase II trial, led and coordinated by Johns Hopkins University investigators, is currently recruiting participants. To inquire about participation, please contact Dr. Quan Dong Nguyen or click here.
Previous research identified high levels of the enzyme plasma kallikrein in patients with diabetic macular edema, a condition that can cause impaired vision or blindness. JDRF-funded studies by KalVista Pharmaceuticals aim to identify new therapies that will reduce levels of plasma kallikrein and preserve the eyesight of people with T1D.
Q: What is diabetic retinopathy? A: Diabetic retinopathy is the most common diabetic eye disease and a leading cause of blindness in American adults. Diabetic retinopathy is a progressive disease that destroys small blood vessels in the retina, eventually causing vision problems. In its most advanced form–proliferative retinopathy–it can cause blindness. According to the National [...]
and John McIntosh Retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes, develops because of gradual changes to the retina—a delicate, light-sensitive membrane lining the inner eyeball that is connected to the brain via the optic nerve. When diabetic retinopathy (DR) goes untreated, it can compromise the retina, impair vision and cause blindness. The sight-damaging changes to the [...]
The two-year study compared Lucentis plus laser therapy to laser therapy alone for people with diabetic macular edema (DME), a major complication of diabetes that can result in vision loss. Half of the people treated with the Lucentis therapy showed improvement in their vision – results that were about twice as good as laser treatment alone.
Certain drugs currently used to treat high blood pressure appear to significantly slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
The collaborative relationship between JDRF and Genentech contributed vital information about the performance of this drug, which can provide an immediate treatment for a serious diabetes-related complication that affects adults living with type 1 diabetes. We are pleased to see the European approval of Lucentis, a first-time treatment for diabetes-related eye disease, and JDRF continues to advocate for the approval of Lucentis in the United States.
