Ocular Therapeutix’s Axpaxli: A Potential Shift in Wet AMD Treatment?
The treatment landscape for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may be on the cusp of change. Ocular Therapeutix announced positive results from a late-stage clinical trial of its experimental drug, Axpaxli, demonstrating superior vision maintenance compared to aflibercept (Eylea) in patients with this common cause of blindness. The findings, released on February 17, 2026, signal a potential new option for patients requiring frequent injections.
Axpaxli’s Performance in the SOL-1 Trial
The Phase 3 SOL-1 trial revealed that 74.1% of patients receiving Axpaxli maintained their vision at week 36, a 17.5% risk difference (p=0.0006) compared to those treated with aflibercept. Even at week 52, Axpaxli showed continued benefit, with 65.9% of patients maintaining vision, representing a 21.1% risk difference (p<0.0001) over aflibercept. Notably, 80.6% of patients on Axpaxli were rescue-free at week 24.
A Closer Glance at the Results: Why the Nuance?
Whereas the results are positive, some analysts suggest the margin of superiority wasn’t as large as anticipated. The difference in durability of treatment between Axpaxli and Eylea was “narrower than investors expected,” according to reporting by STAT News. This has sparked debate about Axpaxli’s commercial potential in a market already populated with effective treatments.
The Current Wet AMD Treatment Paradigm
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leaking fluid and causing vision loss. Current treatments, like Eylea, involve regular injections into the eye to inhibit the growth of these vessels. These injections, while effective, are burdensome for patients and healthcare systems. A treatment offering longer intervals between injections would be a significant advancement.
What Makes Axpaxli Different?
Axpaxli utilizes a different approach to VEGF suppression. The trial data suggests its potency and pan-VEGF suppression capabilities contribute to its superior outcomes. The drug was also generally well-tolerated, with no treatment-related ocular serious adverse events reported in the SOL-1 trial.
Regulatory Pathway and Future Outlook
Ocular Therapeutix plans to submit a New Drug Application (NDA) to the FDA based on the SOL-1 data, following formal discussions with the agency. The detailed trial data will also be presented at the 49th Macula Society Annual Meeting. Approval could position Axpaxli as a competitive alternative to existing therapies, potentially reshaping the treatment algorithm for wet AMD.
The Potential for Reduced Treatment Burden
The promise of fewer injections is a major draw for both patients and physicians. Rescue-free rates with Axpaxli were high, indicating a reduced need for supplemental treatment. If approved, Axpaxli could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals living with wet AMD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is wet AMD?
A: Wet age-related macular degeneration is an eye disease that causes vision loss due to the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina.
Q: How is wet AMD currently treated?
A: Current treatments involve regular injections of drugs that inhibit the growth of these abnormal blood vessels.
Q: What is Axpaxli?
A: Axpaxli is an experimental drug developed by Ocular Therapeutix that aims to provide a more effective and less frequent treatment option for wet AMD.
Q: What were the key findings of the SOL-1 trial?
A: The SOL-1 trial demonstrated that Axpaxli maintained vision in a higher percentage of patients compared to aflibercept, with a reduced need for rescue treatments.
Q: When might Axpaxli be available to patients?
A: Ocular Therapeutix plans to submit an NDA to the FDA, and if approved, Axpaxli could become available to patients in the future.
