A treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), developed in India, is on track to be commercialized by early 2025.
The innovative product results from a collaboration between Mumbai-based Vav Life Sciences and Madurai’s Aurolab Trust, the manufacturing division of Aravind Eye Hospital.
Awaiting Final Regulatory Approval
The product is pending final approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
Arun Kedia, Managing Director of Vav Life Sciences, confirmed that the treatment is designed to be more affordable and ‘more bio-available,’ meaning it is absorbed more effectively by the body.
The formulation leverages VAV’s synthetic phospholipid technology to enhance drug delivery.
Advanced Liposomal Injection Technology
The treatment employs an intravenous liposomal Verteporfin injection combined with photodynamic therapy (light treatment) to address India’s AMD Treatment.
According to industry experts, no locally manufactured options exist for wet AMD treatment in India. The only alternative is an imported product priced at approximately ₹70,000.
A First for India
Kedia stated, “We are introducing the first product of its kind in the country.”
He mentioned that the team has successfully completed all necessary development phases, including cell line studies, in-vivo evaluations, and long-term stability trials.
The in-house scientific team at Aurolab, supported by VAV’s nanotechnology experts, spearheaded the product’s development.
Expertise Rooted in Nanotechnology
Vav Life Sciences specializes in nanotechnology and lipid-based drug delivery systems.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company was one of the four global manufacturers who produced phospholipids used in mRNA vaccines.
Scaling Up Production
While awaiting CDSCO’s approval, Aurolab is preparing to scale up its manufacturing capabilities.
“The entire production will take place at Aurolab’s site,” Kedia said.
The government will likely offer India’s AMD treatment free of cost or at subsidized rates to make it widely accessible. They will disclose details on pricing after approval.
Addressing a Global Concern
Age-related macular degeneration is a growing global health issue, particularly with an aging population at greater risk.
As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, the locally developed treatment has the potential to significantly reduce the burden of AMD in India and beyond.
