The Macular Society’s February 2025 e-newsletter is out. Below are the headlines – you can read the full stories here.
Welcome to your enewsletter. With the longest month of the year behind us, there is still a chill in the air, so we hope you are managing to stay warm and well as we wait for spring to arrive.
This month, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) rejected the first potential treatment for late-stage dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The news is undoubtedly a setback for those living with the condition and we’ve answered your questions about what comes next.
In this edition, we also focus on how you can navigate the challenges of sight loss – from counselling to finding joy from new hobbies.
We hope you find this information helpful and encouraging, and we’re truly grateful that you are a part of this supportive and inspiring community.
First treatment for late-stage dry AMD rejected by UK drug regulator
The first potential treatment for geographic atrophy (GA) or late-stage dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been rejected by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The decision is a significant setback.
Syfovre FAQs and next steps for late-stage dry AMD
The MHRA’s decision to reject the first potential treatment for GA, or late-stage AMD is undoubtedly a disappointing one for those living with the condition. But, what does the decision mean? We answer your questions.
Finding joy after a diagnosis
Losing their sight changed Dawn and Chris’ lives, but it didn’t stop them from finding enjoyment in the every day. In the latest My Macular and Me podcast, they share how new hobbies, support from others, and a positive mindset helped them find joy after their diagnoses.
“Sharing and processing emotions can be a powerful tool for healing”
Suzanne from the Macular Society’s counselling team shares valuable advice for anyone struggling to come to terms with a diagnosis. She highlights the emotional challenges many face and offers guidance on how to overcome them.
New approved treatment for wet AMD
Lytenava (bevacizumab gamma), is the first licensed version of Avastin for wet AMD. The treatment was approved by the National Institute for Care Excellence (NICE) for use in the NHS last year. Join our monthly webinar as professor Andrew Lotery will break down what this new treatment means for you and how it compares to existing treatments, such as Eylea and Lucentis.
“Without speaking a word, my cane tells my story”
For Rita, a simple white stick helped her overcome her embarrassment of losing her sight, as well as communicate her sight loss to others.
