Dr Levi Garraway

Two global phase III studies reported positive topline results confirming the efficacy and safety of faricimab for people living with diabetic macular oedema (DMO). 

Developed by Genentech, Faricimab is the first investigational antibody designed for the eye targeting two distinct pathways, angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), responsible for many retinal conditions. Faricimab works by blocking both pathways to stabilise blood vessels.  

“These positive results show that faricimab has the potential to offer lasting vision improvements for people with diabetic macular oedema, while also reducing the treatment burden associated with frequent eye injections,” said Dr Levi Garraway, Genentech chief medical officer and head of global product development. 

Both studies (Yosemite and Rhine) met their primary endpoint and showed that faricimab given every eight weeks, and at personalised dosing intervals up to 16 weeks, demonstrated non-inferior visual acuity gains compared to aflibercept given every eight weeks. Faricimab was generally well-tolerated and no new safety issues were identified.