Netarsudil for Retinal Detachment
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether netarsudil (an ophthalmic solution) can safely prevent scar tissue formation after retinal detachment surgery. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, a layer of tissue in the eye, pulls away from its normal position. The study seeks participants at high risk for scar tissue formation after retinal detachment repair, particularly those with multiple retinal breaks or a detachment lasting over three weeks. Participants will use either netarsudil eye drops or a placebo (artificial tears) following surgery. This trial suits individuals willing to adhere to study procedures and without certain eye conditions or treatments. As a Phase 2 trial, the research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that netarsudil 0.02% is generally well-tolerated by patients. In earlier studies, some experienced side effects like eye redness, known as conjunctival hyperemia, occurring in about 42% of participants. However, many found the treatment manageable and continued its use.
Netarsudil is already approved for lowering eye pressure in other eye conditions, indicating its relative safety. Current research explores its use for preventing scar tissue after retinal detachment surgery. While this new application is still under study, safety data from past studies provides some reassurance.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for retinal detachment?
Unlike the standard treatments for retinal detachment, which typically involve surgical repair techniques, netarsudil offers a unique approach by using a rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitor. This medication is applied as an eye drop, making it less invasive compared to traditional methods. Researchers are excited because netarsudil targets the cellular mechanisms that may promote healing and reduce complications, potentially improving outcomes for patients after surgery. This novel mechanism and delivery method could represent a significant advancement in retinal detachment care.
What evidence suggests that netarsudil might be an effective treatment for retinal detachment?
Research has shown that netarsudil eye drops effectively lower eye pressure, crucial for treating certain eye conditions. Studies have found that netarsudil performs as well as timolol, a common eye pressure medication. It blocks a protein called rho-kinase, aiding eye fluid drainage and influencing scar formation. In this trial, one group of participants will receive netarsudil to explore its potential to reduce scarring after retinal detachment surgery, especially in high-risk patients. Meanwhile, the control group will receive artificial tears as a placebo.13567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jason Hsu, MD
Principal Investigator
Wills Eye Physicians-Mid Atlantic Retina, Wills Eye Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with a specific type of retinal detachment at high risk for scar tissue formation after surgery. Participants must be willing to follow the study plan and have had no prior significant eye surgeries, except cataract extraction.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either netarsudil or placebo once daily in the evening starting on postoperative day 1 after RRD repair surgery, till post-operative day 56
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessments for proliferative vitreoretinopathy and visual acuity
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Glycerin 0.2%/Hypromellose 0.2%/Peg 1%/Soln,Oph,Ud
- Netarsudil 0.02% Ophthalmic Solution [RHOPRESSA]
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Wills Eye
Lead Sponsor