Bausch + Lomb Halts Glaucoma Program After Phase 2 Miss
Event summary
- Bausch + Lomb's Phase 2 study for glaucoma neuroprotective candidate BL1107 failed to meet primary endpoint.
- Company will not advance the program as a topical eye drop and will focus solely on developing a sustained-release implant for geographic atrophy (GA).
- Phase 2 trial enrolled 159 adults with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
- Clinical trials for GA treatment expected to begin in 2028, collaborating with Ripple Therapeutics.
The big picture
Bausch + Lomb's decision to halt the glaucoma program underscores the high-risk nature of drug development, where portfolio diversification is key. The shift to focusing on the GA treatment reflects a strategic realignment toward areas with potentially higher long-term returns. The company's collaboration with Ripple Therapeutics highlights the growing importance of partnerships in advancing complex therapeutic candidates.
What we're watching
- Pipeline Focus
- Whether Bausch + Lomb can successfully pivot its resources to the GA program after the glaucoma setback.
- Execution Risk
- The pace at which the company can initiate and advance clinical trials for the GA treatment by 2028.
- Strategic Alignment
- How the shift in focus aligns with broader industry trends in neuroprotective and sustained-release therapies.
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