Industry News
Azura Ophthalmics to Present New Data on Potential First Ophthalmic Keratolytic for Ocular Surface Diseases
Azura Ophthalmics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, is set to present new data at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) conferences, showcasing the potential of its lead drug candidate, AZR-MD-001, as the first ophthalmic keratolytic for ocular surface diseases.
The company will present 10 abstracts at the conferences, highlighting positive efficacy and safety data from Phase 2 studies of AZR-MD-001. The data set includes new and updated information demonstrating the durability of response in improving ocular signs and symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) after six months of treatment.
Marc Gleeson, Chief Executive Officer of Azura, commented, "Together, the data set we are presenting at these prestigious conferences show multiple potential patient benefits and mild, transient side effects in a topical medicine, supporting the potential of AZR-MD-001 as an entirely new approach targeting the underlying cause of many ocular surface diseases​. We look forward to initiating our Phase 3 trial in Q2 2024 and working with investigators and patients to advance our goal of bringing symptom relief to people burdened by MGD and associated ocular surface conditions.”
The data further supports the potential of AZR-MD-001 to open up blocked glands and improve the quality of the tear film, which may resolve many downstream ocular surface conditions such as dry eye disease and contact lens discomfort.
“With the data to be presented at ASCRS and ARVO, it’s encouraging to see AZR-MD-001 has the potential to improve the signs and symptoms of MGD for up to six months, with clinically meaningful improvements for people living with the progressive condition,” said Julie Schallhorn, M.D., M.S., ophthalmologist at University of California, San Francisco Health. “These data further support that by opening up blocked glands and improving the quality of the tear film, many downstream ocular surface conditions such as dry eye disease and contact lens discomfort may be resolved.”
Azura's presentation at these conferences will provide valuable insights into the potential of AZR-MD-001 as a first-in-class ophthalmic keratolytic, offering hope for patients suffering from underserved ocular surface diseases.
