Real-world data from the FARETINA-DME study indicate that faricimab demonstrates stable visual acuity outcomes in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). The study, presented at the ARVO meeting, analyzed data from over 3,100 patients treated between February and September 2022, following faricimab's approval in January 2022.
The study, led by David Tabano, PhD, senior health economist at Genentech, leveraged the IRIS Registry to track patient outcomes. The cohort included both treatment-naive patients and those previously treated with other DME therapies. A key finding was that in previously treated patients who switched to faricimab, more than 70% experienced an extension of their treatment intervals within the first two injections. This suggests a potential reduction in treatment burden for patients.
Visual acuity remained stable in both treatment-naive and previously treated patients after switching to faricimab. Notably, Tabano mentioned, "In fact, in the treatment-naive cohorts, after four injections, we may be detecting an early signal of vision gains." This observation warrants further investigation to confirm and quantify any potential improvements in vision among newly treated patients.
Faricimab, a bispecific antibody, targets both VEGF-A and Ang-2, addressing key drivers of vascular instability and leakage in DME. These real-world findings support the clinical efficacy demonstrated in pivotal trials and offer insights into how faricimab performs in routine clinical practice. The ability to extend treatment intervals while maintaining visual acuity represents a significant benefit for patients, potentially improving adherence and quality of life. Further studies are needed to fully evaluate the long-term effects and potential vision gains observed in treatment-naive patients.
