Clinical trials in Scotland for potential new treatment for dry AMD

A drug which could become the first treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration is being trialled in Scotland for the first time. 

Patients are now starting to receive Lampalizumab, which is not yet licensed, as part of phase three of the clinical trials which are under way at the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh and Ayr Hospital in South Ayrshire.

Professor Baljean Dhillon, consultant ophthalmic surgeon with NHS Lothian, is one of 300 doctors across 24 different countries taking part in the study.

He described the research as an "exciting step forward" for people living with the "devastating condition", which there is currently no treatment for. 

Prof Dhillon said: "This trial offers potential hope for a new treatment that may slow disease progression and visual decline.

"I am delighted that patients in Edinburgh are among the first in Scotland to be able to trial this new medicine and adds to the cutting-edge research into macular degeneration being carried out at the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion by NHS Lothian and the University of Edinburgh."

People in the Edinburgh area who are interested in taking part in the trial can call the research office on 0131 536 4120, while people in the Ayr area are asked to contact their local optometrist.