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Study shows advantages of as-needed administration of Ozurdex in DME
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FLORENCE, Italy — As-needed administration of a corticosteroid implant may enhance stability of visual outcomes in patients with diabetic macular edema, according to a study.
In phase 3 studies, the Ozurdex dexamethasone implant (Allergan) administered at fixed 6-month intervals proved effective, but a small, gradual decline of vision was seen after the first 3 months as the effects of the drug started wearing off.
Paolo Lanzetta
“In a small multicenter study, we evaluated the results of a different treatment schedule, with monthly monitoring and treatment as needed, something unusual for Ozurdex,” Paolo Lanzetta, MD, said at the FLOREtina meeting.
Compared with the fixed administration, the as-needed regimen resulted in more stable vision without significant side effects.
“We had more IOP increase, but monthly monitoring allowed us to treat it quickly. Cataract formation was not more frequent in the PRN group,” Lanzetta said.
As for all drugs, a personalized regimen has advantages because some patients may need more frequent administration than others, he said. – by Michela Cimberle
Disclosure: Lanzetta reports he is a consultant to Allergan.