Netarsudil for Retinal Detachment

This trial examines how a new eye drop, netarsudil, works for individuals with retinal detachment, a condition where the retina separates from its supporting tissue. The primary goal is to determine if these drops can prevent or reduce the formation of harmful membranes in the eye after surgery. The trial also assesses the safety of the drops before and after surgery. Individuals who recently experienced retinal detachment and are scheduled for specific eye surgeries may qualify for this trial. As a Phase 1/Phase 2 trial, this research aims to understand how the treatment works in people and measure its effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to groundbreaking research.

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are already using topical netarsudil in the affected eye, you cannot participate.

Research has shown that netarsudil is generally safe for people. A study using FDA data found that netarsudil has a good safety record with few serious side effects. Most side effects, such as eye redness or discomfort, were mild and temporary. This suggests that the drug is safe for ocular use, particularly as an eye drop.

Researchers are excited about Netarsudil for retinal detachment because it offers a unique approach compared to current treatments like scleral buckling and vitrectomy, which are largely surgical. Netarsudil is administered as an eye drop, providing a non-invasive option that could simplify treatment. It works by targeting the Rho kinase pathway, potentially reducing inflammation and improving healing after retinal detachment repair. This novel mechanism could enhance recovery and outcomes in ways that current surgical methods do not.

Research has shown that netarsudil, a type of medication, can help prevent scarring after surgery to repair a detached retina. In this trial, participants will receive topical Netarsudil ophthalmic solution 0.02% once daily from the time of retinal detachment diagnosis to 16 weeks post-operatively. Studies have found that netarsudil significantly reduces the growth of cells that can cause scars, which is crucial because scarring can lead to post-surgery complications. Additionally, netarsudil reduces blood vessel leaks, swelling, and tissue thickening, common issues in many eye conditions. These findings suggest that netarsudil might effectively prevent complications after retinal detachment surgery.²⁵⁶⁷⁸