The Future of AMD Treatment

Dry AMD treatment research

While there is currently no treatment for dry AMD available in the UK, current research areas include:

• Agents to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression (USA-based research)
• Stem cell therapies to replace damaged retinal cells
• Photobiomodulation (light therapy) to stimulate retinal cell function

New generations of anti-VEGF therapies for wet AMD

Anti-VEGF therapy has been the backbone of wet AMD management for over 15 years. Traditionally, patients need injections every 4–8 weeks to control disease activity. However, newer generations of anti-VEGF molecules are being designed to be more efficient, provide more sustained effect, and reduce the frequency of treatment.

For patients, this means fewer injections and fewer hospital visits - both of which can significantly improve quality of life and adherence to treatment. For healthcare system as a whole, it could reduce clinical pressure on overstretched ophthalmology services.

Port delivery systems

Another exciting development in wet AMD treatment is the port delivery system (PDS), a tiny implant placed in the eye that continuously releases anti-VEGF medication over several months. Instead of returning every few weeks for injections, patients may only need the implant refilled two or three times a year.

Early trial results suggest that the PDS can deliver similar visual outcomes to standard injections while significantly reducing the number of treatment visits. However, the implant must be surgically inserted in theatre. At present, the PDS is only approved by the FDA in the United States and is not avilable in the UK.

Recognising individual responses

Not all patients respond to anti-VEGF therapy in the same way. Some have their choroidal neovascularisation stabilised quickly, while others may have ongoing fluid leakage and vision decline despite regular treatment. Research is increasingly focused on tailoring therapy to the individual, whether by gradually extending the dosing interval (“treat and extend” protocols), switching between different anti-VEGF agents, or combining new treatment approaches.

At Moorfields Private, we offer personalised approach to AMD treatment. We work with patients and their primary care practitioners to find treatment strategy that supports maintaining their vision for as long as possible. We also help to manage other possible eye comorbidities such as cataract which can complicate AMD treatment. As a world-leading research centre, we are at the forefront of improving AMD treatment. We have multiple macular degeneration clinical trials currently active and you can find out more about research opportunities at Moorfields.