OPHTHALMOLOGY

Q: I heard there is a new glaucoma treatment, a sustained-released medication implant. What can you tell me about this new treatment? A:

Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in the United States. In many cases, other than increased intraocular pressure (IOP), there are few or no symptoms until noticeable vision loss occurs. One of the major challenges in managing glaucoma is patient non-compliance with medication. Obstacles to compliance may include forgetfulness, difficulty with drop installation, need for frequent administration, lack of understanding about glaucoma and the effect of eye pressure, and medication cost and side effects. The latest breakthrough in glaucoma treatment is Durysta, the first and only biodegradable, sustained-release implant that continuously delivers Bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog, to help reduce and maintain healthy eye pressure levels. Durysta works by increasing the drainage of aqueous outflow from the eye, which in turns lowers IOP. The FDA has approved Durysta for use in treatment of those with open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Durysta, a preservative-free medication, is contained within a tiny rod-shaped cartridge that is inserted into the front portion of the eye by an ophthalmologist during a safe, 5-minute office procedure. The Durysta implant is biodegradable, dissolves over time, and is eliminated naturally by your body so another procedure to remove the implant is not required. After receiving the Durysta implant, you will continue to be monitored by your eye doctor. The good news for Durysta implant candidates is threefold: 1) the implant is designed to last 4 to 6 months, 2) possible IOP reduction of up to 30% after 12 weeks per clinical studies, and 3) effects may last longer than the expected 4-6 months as demonstrated in 40% of the clinical trial patients. Durysta, as a sustained-release implant, has the potential to significantly decrease the burden of daily care for glaucoma management. Currently, the FDA has only approved Durysta for a single use per eye although the phase 3 clinical trial is collecting data for multiple administrations.

Is Durysta right for you? Talk with your eye doctor to discuss the risks and benefits of Durysta and to determine the most effective treatment plan for your type of glaucoma and vision needs.