Bayer HealthCare reports positive data for DMO therapy

Bayer HealthCare has announced positive clinical trial data from a phase III trial of its new injection-based treatment for vision impairment due to diabetic macular oedema (DMO).

The aflibercept solution showed a sustained improvement from baseline in best corrected visual acuity among this patient group compared to laser photocoagulation at week 100, both when dosed monthly or administered every two months.

Results from the new Vivid-DME trial corroborated the earlier findings of the similarly-designed Vista-DME study, with both trials set to continue as planned up to 148 weeks.

Aflibercept solution for injection into the eye has already been approved under the brand name Eylea for the treatment of multiple conditions, including neovascular age-related macular degeneration and visual impairment due to macular oedema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion.

Dr Joerg Moeller, member of the Bayer HealthCare executive committee and head of global development, said: "If approved, we hope aflibercept solution for injection may offer people affected by diabetic vision loss a new option to improve and sustain their vision."

The drug is considered to be one of the company's most strategically important products and drivers of growth, alongside Xarelto, Stivarga, Xofigo and Adempas.