Ocriplasmin - Jetrea is on the market!

Ocriplasmin (JETREA®) has been approved for the treatment of symptomatic vitreomacular traction. This drug developed by Thrombogenics (of Belgium) and marketed in Europe by Alcon was first spotted by prof de Smet who approached the company in 2002 with an initial request to test its potential in eye disease. Following several initial trials (and publications), the product was developed by Thrombogenics for ocular use. In appropriate patients, it will avoid the need for surgery, as the medication itself may relieve the traction on the retina leading to the diseased state.