Sustained-release dexamethasone intravitreal implant for treatment of diabetic macular edema

Abstract

A sustained-release biodegradable dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DEX implant) has the potential to become a valuable adjunct to the management of diabetic macular edema. Clinical studies have demonstrated that DEX implant increases visual acuity and decreases macular thickness and vascular leakage in patients with macular edema secondary to diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, and noninfectious uveitis. The favorable effects of DEX implant on visual acuity are sustained for up to 6 months. Complications such as increased intraocular pressure and cataract may be less common with DEX implant than with intravitreal injections of triamcinolone acetonide. An applicator is used to place DEX implant into the vitreous cavity in a sutureless, office-based procedure. DEX implant has been approved for the treatment of macular edema following retinal vein occlusion, and for the treatment of intermediate and posterior uveitis. Phase III trials are underway evaluating the long-term efficacy and safety of DEX implant for the treatment of diabetic macular edema.

Keywords::

• corticosteroid
• dexamethasone
• diabetic retinopathy
• macular edema
• sustained release
• treatment

Financial & competing interests disclosure

Baruch D Kuppermann is a consultant for Allergan, Inc. The author has no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Kate Ivins, PhD, provided freelance medical writing assistance (funded by Allergan, Inc.) in the preparation of the manuscript.