Valganciclovir Ointment Information

Valganciclovir ophthalmic ointment is a novel treatment for intraocular inflammation and increased intraocular pressure (uveitic glaucoma) associated with viral infection in the eye. Uveitic glaucoma is often diagnosed as Posner-Schlossman syndrome, Fuch's heterochromic iridocyclitis, corneal endotheliitis, or hypertensive uveitis/iritis. This condition affects over 10,000 people in the US and over 300,000 people worldwide. Valganciclovir is an existing, FDA-approved compound that is effective against cytomegalovirus (CMV) and other herpesviruses. These viruses were recently recognized as the underlying cause for more than 50% of cases of uveitic glaucoma. Oral valganciclovir is effective in controlling the disease in these patients. However, long-term use of oral valganciclovir is associated with significant systemic adverse effects including bone marrow suppression and impairment of fertility. Topical valganciclovir ointment could be an effective, safe, and less expensive long-term treatment for uveitic glaucoma that is associated with clinical signs of CMV iritis. Valganciclovir ointment is not an FDA-approved product. Additional safety and efficacy studies are needed to seek FDA's marketing approval. The goal of this effort is to build a community of individuals / organizations who are interested in finding ways to further develop valganciclovir ophthalmic ointment. Please, feel free to participate in the discussion forum or contact Anton Delwig.