Arxxant (ruboxistaurin mesylate), from Eli Lilly, is a new medication specifically designed to treat diabetic retinopathy. It has completed its clinicals; in a three-year “Phase 3” trial involving 685 patients, it significantly reduced the occurrence of sustained moderate visual loss in patients being treated for moderate to very severe diabetic retinopathy.
The Food and Drug Administration has granted “priority review status” for Arxxant. In its clinical tests, no significant safety issues have emerged, and the item has demonstrated its efficacy. It’s all paperwork now.
Please note: For Arxxant to be effective (the same is true for current therapies
like laser photocoagulation), the retinopathy must first be detected.
That means regular eye exams with dilated pupils. Unfortunately,
no therapy to date can undo damage already done. It shouldn’t be too long
a wait; ask your doctor about Lilly’s Arxxant; but get your eyes examined
first.