Roche introduces new bispecific monoclonal antibody for treating vision loss in India
Roche Pharma has made an entrance into the ophthalmology sector in India with the launch of Vabysmo (faricimab), a new bispecific monoclonal antibody to treat vision loss due to neovascular or “wet” age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME). The medication works by neutralizing two key proteins, angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), which are responsible for retinal conditions.
According to Roche Pharma, the proteins destabilize blood vessels in the eye, leading to inflammation and vision loss. Vabysmo aims to block both pathways involving Ang-2 and VEGF-A, and stabilize blood vessels. V Simpson Emmanuel, CEO and Managing Director of Roche Pharma India, emphasized the importance of addressing retinal conditions to preserve sight and highlighted the impact of late diagnosis or neglect on vision loss.
With the launch of Vabysmo, Roche Pharma aims to bring innovative solutions to the ophthalmology space in India. The medication offers a more convenient and effective treatment schedule for patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems, requiring fewer eye injections over time while improving and maintaining vision and anatomy. Treatment options for nAMD and DME typically involve frequent eye injections, but Vabysmo extends the interval to once every four months.
Vabysmo received approval from the USFDA in January 2022 and is currently available in over 90 countries. Roche Pharma’s entry into the ophthalmology sector represents a significant step towards addressing retinal conditions and enhancing treatment options for patients in India. This development underscores the company’s commitment to delivering best-in-class innovations to the country’s healthcare landscape.
