More than 70% of U.S. Ophthalmologists predict a fundamental shift in the management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME) within the next five years, according to recent research from Spherix Global Insights.
The evolving treatment landscape for these retinal diseases is becoming increasingly competitive, driven by biologic competition, payer pressures and momentum in gene therapy, the research indicates. A study of over 100 U.S. Ophthalmologists, primarily retina specialists, revealed that Roche/Genentech’s Vabysmo currently leads the market, earning high marks for efficacy, physician satisfaction, and flexible dosing regimens.
Regeneron’s Eylea HD is gaining traction as specialists prioritize longer-acting treatment options. Eylea 2mg remains a preferred second-line therapy, following Avastin, due to its established long-term data, efficacy, and safety profile.
Despite widespread awareness, the uptake of biosimilars remains limited, particularly as a first-line treatment. Physicians express clinical conservatism and concerns regarding interchangeability as key factors hindering broader adoption. But, many acknowledge that payer pressures, including potential step therapy mandates requiring biosimilar trials before access to branded biologics, could force a change in prescribing habits.
Global surveys conducted as part of the Barometer Program highlight the burdens experienced by patients undergoing anti-VEGF therapy for retinal diseases. These burdens include treatment frequency, lengthy clinic wait times, travel difficulties, and associated costs. Patients similarly expressed a desire for increased dialogue with their providers and more comprehensive educational materials about their conditions and treatments.
Healthcare providers identified reducing the frequency of clinic appointments without compromising vision as a key opportunity to better support patients. Constrained clinic capacity and a lack of sufficient educational resources for patients were also cited as significant challenges. Anat Loewenstein MD noted that the research will provide a roadmap to practical policy and clinical practice solutions that could improve care delivery, treatment adherence, and patient outcomes.
A recent discussion at the EnVision Summit in Puerto Rico, February 13-16, focused on the efficacy of treatments for nAMD and DME, reviewing the real-world status of current therapies.
An expert panel discussion hosted by Pharmacy Times examined the burden of nAMD and DME, emerging treatments, and managed care strategies to improve patient outcomes and cost-effective care.
