Alimera begins enrollment for pilot study of implant in patients with geographic atrophy

ATLANTA — Alimera Sciences has begun enrollment for a pilot study to assess the safety and efficacy of its intravitreal implant in patients with bilateral geographic atrophy due to age-related macular degeneration, according to a press release from the company.

The study will compare 0.23 µg and 0.45 µg daily dose concentrations of Iluvien against sham injections to evaluate the change from baseline in size of geographic atrophy over time, the release said.

Alimera has also entered into an exclusive global agreement with Emory University to explore oxidative stress management — specifically, the reduction of reactive oxygen species — as a possible strategy for treating ophthalmic diseases.

Under the terms of the agreement, Alimera will maintain an exclusive option to license NADPH oxidase inhibitors as potential treatments for conditions, including AMD and geographic atrophy.

To date, Alimera has already exercised its option to acquire a license for one class of NADPH oxidase inhibitors, according to the release.