AMD Awareness Month: How Research Is Expanding Options for Patients
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults, affecting nearly 20 million Americans over the age of 40. Yet for many years, despite its prevalence, treatment options for AMD were limited. Today, thanks to the work of leading specialists and dedicated patients, that reality is changing. Ongoing research and clinical trials have played a vital role in expanding treatment options, improving outcomes, and making care more efficient for people living with AMD.
How Research Is Shaping Treatment for AMD
Advances in research have helped expand options across all stages of AMD, allowing care to be more closely tailored to each patient’s needs.
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, which can quickly affect central vision. Anti-VEGF injections have been the standard of care for many years and remain highly effective. However, for many patients, the frequency at which injections are needed can make it difficult to keep up with the regular care needed to prevent vision loss. Recently, clinical research has led to newer medications that last longer in the eye, allowing certain patients to go several months between treatments. This advancement has eased the burden of frequent visits and has helped keep more people on track with their care.
Researchers are also studying gene-based therapies to make treatment for wet AMD even more durable and convenient. The idea behind these treatments is to help the eye produce its own anti-VEGF medication, potentially reducing or even eliminating the need for ongoing injections. Several of these therapies are now in later-stage clinical trials, and select studies are available at Retina Consultants of Texas, offering eligible patients early access to emerging treatments.
In recent years, clinical research has led to treatment options for more intermediate and advanced forms of dry AMD, including geographic atrophy (GA), which previously had no targeted interventions. These newer therapies are designed to slow the progression of retinal cell damage by targeting certain immune processes in the eye, helping to preserve vision for longer. Early-stage clinical trials are also underway to explore whether stem cell–based therapies can replace retinal cells lost in the later stages of dry AMD and possibly restore vision.
What to Know About Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are carefully designed studies that evaluate new treatments or new ways of using existing ones. They follow strict safety and ethical guidelines and are overseen by multiple regulatory and review boards. Participation is always voluntary, and patients receive detailed information before deciding whether a study is right for them.
If you’re curious about research options, the first step is a standard appointment with one of our physicians. During that visit, your doctor will evaluate your eye health, discuss your diagnosis, and review your current treatment plan. If there are clinical trials that may be appropriate for you, your physician can explain what participation would involve, including visit schedules, potential benefits, and possible risks.
Exploring a clinical trial does not replace standard care. Instead, it can expand your options and provide access to therapies that are still being studied, while you continue to receive close monitoring from your retina specialist.
Innovative Research and Care at Retina Consultants of Texas
At Retina Consultants of Texas, patient care and research go hand in hand. By combining clinical care with research, we have helped bring promising therapies from the trial stage into everyday practice.
If you have AMD or have been told you may be at risk, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam is the best way to stay informed about your condition and your options. At Retina Consultants of Texas, every decision starts with what’s best for the patient. Whether that means continuing with established treatments, adjusting your current plan, or learning more about research opportunities, the focus remains on protecting your vision and supporting your long-term eye health. Reach out today to learn more.
