InMed Unveils INM-089 for Treating Dry AMD

InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc., a leading company in the pharmaceutical industry, recently announced significant advancements in its development of INM-089, a promising drug candidate aimed at treating dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As a common eye condition affecting the central vision of millions worldwide, particularly those over the age of 40, AMD presents a substantial unmet medical need. This progressive disease primarily affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision, and dry AMD accounts for approximately 80% of all AMD cases.

The Company has successfully selected an intravitreal (IVT) formulation for INM-089, which has shown promise in preclinical studies. This formulation enables the delivery of the active pharmaceutical ingredient directly to the targeted area of the eye. This method, widely accepted among retinal specialists, stands in contrast to topical treatments such as eye drops, which struggle to deliver highly lipophilic drugs effectively because of the eye's complex anatomy and protective barriers.

Michael Woudenberg, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls at InMed, expressed optimism regarding the IVT formulation's advantages for further development. The company's data indicates that INM-089 offers substantial potential as a therapeutic approach for dry AMD. The formulation has been successfully delivered to the eye in doses up to ten times the anticipated therapeutic level, thus demonstrating a favorable pharmacokinetic profile and a significant safety margin.

InMed has made substantial progress with dose-ranging studies, which will guide the selection of appropriate doses for pivotal preclinical toxicology studies. The ongoing research underscores INM-089's capacity to deliver neuroprotection for photoreceptors, enhance photoreceptor function, and improve the integrity of the retinal pigment epithelium. Importantly, the drug candidate reduces extracellular autofluorescent deposits—a hallmark of dry AMD—and preserves retinal function. Additionally, INM-089 has shown improvements in the thickness of the retina's outer nuclear layer, where photoreceptors are located.

The growing need for AMD treatments is underscored by the disease's prevalence, impacting an estimated 196 million people globally. Although two treatments for late-stage dry AMD, also known as geographic atrophy, have been approved, a significant need for new and effective therapies remains. The promising results from InMed's preclinical studies suggest that INM-089 could become a vital therapeutic option in addressing this need.

InMed Pharmaceuticals is committed to developing a range of small molecule drug candidates targeting diseases with high unmet needs. The company's pipeline includes treatments for Alzheimer’s, ocular, and dermatological conditions, with a focus on targeting CB1/CB2 receptors.

The advancements in INM-089's development mark a significant milestone in InMed's efforts to provide effective treatments for dry AMD. The company's continued dedication to research and innovation positions it as a key player in addressing the challenges of this prevalent eye disease. With further studies and clinical development on the horizon, INM-089 holds promise for becoming a critical component in the treatment landscape for AMD.