Faricimab: an investigational agent targeting the Tie-2/angiopoietin pathway and VEGF-A for the treatment of retinal diseases

Abstract

Introduction: Intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs represent the first-line treatment option for wet age-related macular degeneration (w-AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME); however, the frequent injection intervals have illuminated to the necessity for new molecules allowing a more prolonged treatment regimen. Faricimab is a promising bispecific drug targeting VEGF-A and the Ang-Tie/pathway. Phase II STAIRWAY and AVENUE Trials showed its clinical efficacy for the treatment of w-AMD, while the phase II BOULEVARD Trial revealed its superiority to monthly ranibizumab in the management of DME with a monthly treatment regimen. The agents are awaiting approval for the treatment of w-AMD and DME.

Areas covered: This article presents an overview of w-AMD and diabetic retinopathy and examines the progress of Faricimab through clinical trials. It offers insights on where Faricimab may be placed in the future market of anti-VEGF treatments and discusses the role of Ang/Tie pathway as a potential additive weapon for the treatment of w-AMD, DME, and retinal vein occlusion (RVO).

Expert opinion: The possibility of administering faricimab with more prolonged treatment intervals represents an important advantage to decrease the treatment burden and improve patient compliance. Further phase III trials should provide more evidence on clinical efficacy.

Keywords: Macular degeneration; ang/tie; ang2; angiogenesis; anti-VEGF drugs; faricimab; intravitreal injections; retina.