Ozurdex is now being used to treat diabetic macular edema (DME). DME is one of the most common causes of vision loss in patients with diabetes. Vision complications from diabetes are the leading cause of blindness in U.S. adults aged 20-74.

Ozurdex is a previously FDA-approved drug for treatment of macular edema caused by retinal vein occlusion and uveitis. The MEAD trial was an FDA study that tested the effectiveness of Ozurdex in diabetic patients. The three-year, multi-center trial concluded that patients with DME who already have an artificial intraocular lens implant (IOL), or are scheduled to have one, showed a 15 or more letter improvement in visual acuity on the eye chart when treated with Ozurdex. Based on these conclusions, and safety findings, the FDA gave the approval for Ozurdex to be used in patients that meet the study criteria.

Ozurdex is a sustained-release, intraocular steroid known to reduce macular swelling. The drug comes in the form of a tiny rod-shaped implant which is injected into the eye’s vitreous, the clear jelly-like liquid that fills the inside of the eyeball, using a special applicator that looks sort of like a fountain pen.

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The implant dissolves slowly over time, releasing its anti-inflammatory medication into the eye. The released medicine is continuously absorbed into the retina where it reduces swelling in the macula for up to six months. The implant dissolves completely, so there is no need to surgically remove anything. This technique of drug delivery greatly reduces the need for daily eye drops and frequent doctor visits.

The most common Ozurdex side effects reported in are increased intraocular pressure and cataract. Other side effects include: minor bleeding in the “whites” of the eye following the injection, eye pain, vitreous detachment and headache. These side effects should be monitored closely by the patient’s doctor.

Ozurdex is relatively safe and provides patients with a long-term treatment option, reducing the need for monthly eye injections and daily eye drops. It is now another welcome option in the retina doctor’s toolbox when considering best practices for managing diabetic macular edema.

We will continue to closely follow diabetic eye research here at www.MaculaCenter.com and post new articles frequently. Bookmark our site to check back frequently!

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