Bayer HealthCare reports positive mCNV trial data for VEGF Trap-Eye

Bayer HealthCare has reported positive phase III trial data showing the benefits its drug VEGF Trap-Eye can provide to myopic choroidal neovascularisation (mCNV) sufferers.

New 48-week results from the Myrror trial have demonstrated the long-term safety and efficacy of the compound in the treatment of this potentially serious condition, which can result in blindness if left unchecked.

After 24 weeks of therapy, the majority of patients did not require any additional injections in the final two quarters of the study.

The manufacturer now expects to submit the first application for regulatory approval for this indication in Asia before the end of the year.

Dr Kemal Malik, member of the Bayer HealthCare Executive Committee and head of global development, said: "Early and effective treatment options are urgently needed for patients with mCNV to avoid permanent vision loss."

This comes after the company filed for approval of the drug – which is marketed under the brand name Eylea – as a therapy for diabetic macular oedema in the US and Europe earlier this month.