Novartis and Alcon report positive vitreomacular adhesion drug data

Novartis and its subsidiary Alcon have published positive clinical data supporting the safety and efficacy of what could become the first pharmacological eye treatment for vitreomacular adhesion.

Results from a pair of phase III clinical trials found that the new drug ocriplasmin was able to deliver a significantly better performance in terms of resolving vitreomacular traction and closing macular holes compared to placebo.

For the majority of patients receiving Alcon's therapy were able to experience these positive benefits after seven days of treatment.

Alcon has acquired the rights to commercialise ocriplasmin outside the US from ThromboGenics, with the European Medicines Agency currently carrying out a review of the drug.

Kevin Buehler, division head at Alcon, said: "With Alcon's extensive commercial capabilities, geographic footprint and strong relationships with retinal specialists and ophthalmologists, we are well-positioned to bring this innovative treatment to patients outside the US."

According to Novartis' most recent fiscal report, the strong performance of Alcon during the second quarter has played a key role in helping the group maintain its trajectory towards meeting its financial targets for 2012.