Azura Ophthalmics Presents AZR-MD-001 Data as Potential First Keratolytic for Ocular Surface Diseases

Azura Ophthalmics, a biopharmaceutical firm, is set to present 10 abstracts at the ASCRS and ARVO conferences, highlighting the potential of a novel therapeutic class for treating underrepresented eye conditions. The data reveal that the experimental AZR-MD-001 has shown lasting effects in enhancing the ocular symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) after a six-month treatment period.
AZR-MD-001, the company's leading drug candidate, has demonstrated positive results in Phase 2 trials for MGD, with long-term data indicating improvements in both the signs and symptoms of the condition, as well as for Contact Lens Discomfort (CLD). The ASCRS meeting will take place in Boston from April 5-8, and the ARVO meeting will be in Seattle from May 5-9.
Marc Gleeson, CEO of Azura, stated that the data presented at these conferences support the mild side effects and potential patient benefits of AZR-MD-001 as a new topical treatment for ocular surface diseases. The company anticipates initiating a Phase 3 trial in the second quarter of 2024, aiming to provide relief for those suffering from MGD and related conditions.
MGD, which impacts approximately 100 million individuals in the U.S., is a chronic condition that leads to blocked glands and affects the quality of the tear film, causing discomfort and vision impairment. It is also a primary cause of Dry Eye Disease and a factor in CLD.
Dr. Julie Schallhorn, an ophthalmologist at UCSF Health, noted that AZR-MD-001's potential to improve MGD symptoms for up to six months is encouraging. The drug candidate is believed to work by opening blocked glands and enhancing tear film quality, which could alleviate downstream conditions like dry eye and CLD.
The ASCRS and ARVO sessions will feature various presentations on the efficacy and safety of AZR-MD-001, including its impact on corneal and conjunctival damage, its role in improving tear film stability, and its overall effectiveness in treating MGD over a six-month period.
AZR-MD-001 is an investigational drug that uses selenium sulfide in an ophthalmic ointment form. It is designed to treat the root cause of MGD and its symptoms by breaking down abnormal keratin proteins, reducing keratin production, and improving meibum quality.
Azura Ophthalmics is dedicated to creating a new class of Ophthalmic Keratolytics to address unmet needs in eye care, combining ophthalmologic and dermatologic insights to develop innovative treatments. The company's pipeline includes new chemical entities aimed at treating various ocular conditions. 

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