InMed Pharmaceuticals’ Progress in Dry AMD Treatment with INM-089
The TDR Three Key Takeaways for InMed Pharmaceuticals Dry AMD:
- InMed Pharmaceuticals reports promising results with INM-089 for Dry AMD, suggesting a potential breakthrough in treatment.
- The new drug targets cannabinoid receptors, offering a novel approach to managing Dry AMD symptoms.
- With a focus on improving symptoms, INM-089 may significantly enhance quality of life for Dry AMD patients.
InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc.(NASDAQ:INM) today updated the public on its ongoing research into INM-089, a new drug aimed at treating dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The company is known for its use of rare cannabinoids and cannabinoid analogs in clinical and preclinical programs targeting diseases with significant unmet medical needs.
Photo Courtesy of John Hopkins University
Age-related macular degeneration is a condition that progressively affects the macula, an essential part of the retina needed for sharp central vision. AMD is a primary cause of vision loss in people over 50 and manifests in two forms: dry and wet. The more prevalent dry AMD involves the gradual deterioration of the light-sensitive cells in the macula, often resulting in a slow decline in central vision. The most severe stage of dry AMD, known as geographic atrophy, leads to substantial damage to the macula.
Factors contributing to AMD include aging, smoking, genetic predispositions, obesity, and a diet deficient in essential nutrients such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin.
Currently, there is no cure for AMD, but treatments are available to slow its progression. Dr. Eric Hsu, Senior Vice President of Preclinical Research and Development at InMed, has reported significant improvements in AMD symptoms during tests with INM-089, which is particularly promising given the limited effectiveness and potential side effects of existing treatments.
Preliminary results indicate that INM-089 is highly beneficial for treating dry AMD, especially in cases with geographic atrophy. The research highlighted potential benefits in protecting vision cells, improving cell function, maintaining retinal health, and reducing harmful deposits, all of which are indicative of dry AMD.
INM-089 targets cannabinoid receptors within the endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in maintaining body balance. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and nervous system, while CB2 receptors are involved in reducing inflammation and immune responses.
Dry AMD is the dominant form of the condition, accounting for up to 90% of cases and leading to significant vision loss worldwide. It is characterized by the accumulation of waste materials due to poor circulation in the eye, impairing central vision essential for daily activities like reading and driving. Currently, about 5 million people suffer from geographic atrophy, with numbers expected to increase significantly.
InMed is collaborating with a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization to boost production of INM-089 and enhance its drug formulation. Ongoing studies are focused on better understanding the drug’s mechanisms, including its interactions and effects on drug metabolism.
The development of INM-089 by InMed Pharmaceuticals represents significant progress in offering a more effective treatment for dry AMD, thus addressing a considerable unmet need in eye healthcare. Want to keep up to date with all of TDR’s research and news, subscribe to our daily Baked In newsletter.
