Ajanta Pharma's drug for macular degeneration
By Ananth Iyer | 03 Jan 2000
The Mumbai-based Ajanta Pharma Ltd. claims to have formulated a drug that may help in restricting the progression of age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, a disorder affecting the elderly population and leading to visual impairment such as blurring of vision. There is no conclusive medical or surgical treatment available for the disorder, which is known to affect 4 to 5 per cent of the world's population above 55-60 years in one form or other.
The formulation, branded as Ocugold, is a mixture of natural carotenoids rich in lutein and xeaxanthin, carotenoids rich in natural beta carotene and carrot extract. Lutein and xeaxanthin are the two naturally occurring carotenoids.
According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, or JAMA, lutein and xeaxanthin form the yellow pigments of the macula. The macula, or the yellow spot in the centre of the retina in the human eye, is the place with the highest visual activity. These pigments can deteriorate with age, leading to visual impairment in the elderly (see pic).
A report published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition says lutein and xeaxanthin have the strongest protective effect against AMD. This is supplemented by a finding reported in Landrum et al which says the effect of 140 days of lutein supplement produced a 30 to 40 per cent reduction in the AMD.
According to Milind Biyani, vice-president scientific affairs, Ajanta Pharma, exposure to a high-intensity light source such as sunlight causes temporary blindness and blurring of vision. "In order to protect the retina from permanent damage, lutein and xeaxanthin get secreted in the retina. They then undergo oxidation and eventually the eyesight is restored," he says.
Besides AMD, Ocugold will also be promoted for cataract and retinopathy, says Dr Biyani. "We have added natural beta-carotene, carotenoids and other micronutrients in the formulation. Carotenoids act as antioxidants and may play an important role in reducing free radical damage to the eyes and in turn may prevent cataract or control its progression," he says.
The formulation will soon undergo clinical trials in Hyderabad, Chennai and possibly Mumbai on 50 patients. The company has obtained an Indian product patent for Ocugold and will apply for a Paris Convention Treaty patent within a year.
