Ophthalmology Clinical Trials

About Ophthalmology and Eye Diseases

Novel research directions for the identification of development candidates in the most important ophthalmic indications such as glaucoma, retinal degenerations, myopia are pursued.

Ophthalmology Clinical Trials at Novartis

Novartis Pharmaceuticals is directing its research efforts to provide improved medications for ophthalmics. Some of the conditions currently under investigation include:

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of legal blindness among people over the age of 50 in the Western world. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina. As the photoreceptors begin to deteriorate, so does the central vision needed for everyday activities such as reading or driving. Peripheral vision is usually unaffected. Research has yet to identify the causes of AMD. As the name suggests, the biggest risk factor is age-the disease affects almost 30% of people over age 75. The disease is more prevalent in women, Caucasians, smokers, people who are obese, and those who have a family history.

Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ocular allergy is an exaggerated response of ocular tissues to a relatively harmless allergen. Most ocular allergies are IgE-mediated type I reactions (or have at least a type I component). Type I reactions are characterized by involvement of specific humoral factors: IgE and histamine release from mast cells.

Dry Eye
Dry eye is a disorder of the tear film due to tear deficiency or excessive evaporation that damages the ocular surface. The tear film is the first refractive layer of the eye. It lubricates the ocular surface, possesses a flushing action, and has an antibacterial effect. It plays an important role in corneal health and ocular surface homeostasis. It also supports contact lenses.

If you are interested in learning more about other disease areas or therapeutic areas of Novartis clinical research, please select from the list below.

• Arthritis, Rheumatology and Bone Health Clinical Trial Information


• Cancer and Oncology Clinical Trial Information


• Cardiology and Vascular Diseases Clinical Trial Information


• Diabetes Clinical Trial Information


• Dermatology Clinical Trial Information


• Gastroenterology and Digestive Diseases Clinical Trial Information


• Neurology Clinical Trial Information


• Ophthalmology and Eye Diseases Clinical Trial Information


• Respiratory Clinical Trial Information


• Novartis Medical and Clinical Research