CHMP recommends Nevanac(Alcon/Novartis) for Diabetic Macular Oedema following Cataract Surgery

The Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency has adopted a positive opinion on a new indication for Nevanac (nepafenac), from Alcon/Novartis, as follows: "Reduction in the risk of postoperative macular oedema associated with cataract surgery in diabetic patients". Cystoid macular edema (CME) can occur following routine, uncomplicated cataract surgery. Because macular oedema is sometimes refractory to therapy, prevention is clearly desirable. Several studies have suggested that routine use of NSAID drops , such as Nevanac may prevent macular edema. A large study by Wolf et. al supported this approach and demonstrated that prophylaxis with the topical NSAID nepafenac plus a corticosteroid is more effective than a corticosteroid alone.