Breakthrough Treatments for Dry Macular Degeneration: What’s New in 2025?

Dry macular degeneration—also known as atrophic age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—remains one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over 50....

Breakthrough Treatments for Dry Macular Degeneration: What’s New in 2025?
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Photo by Brands&People / Unsplash

What Is Dry Macular Degeneration?

Dry macular degeneration affects the macula—the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Over time, cells in this area begin to break down, leading to gradual loss of sharp, detailed vision. This can make it difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces.

Unlike wet AMD, which involves abnormal blood vessel growth and is treated with anti-VEGF injections, dry AMD progresses more slowly and doesn’t involve fluid leakage. Until recently, treatment options were limited to lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements.

FDA-Approved Treatment Now Available

In a major breakthrough, two new drugs—Syfovre™ (pegcetacoplan) and Izervay™ (avacincaptad pegol)—have received FDA approval for the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA), the advanced form of dry AMD.

  • Syfovre (by Apellis Pharmaceuticals) was approved in early 2023 and works by targeting the complement system, part of the immune response believed to play a role in AMD progression.
  • Izervay (by Iveric Bio/Astellas) was approved later in 2023 and uses a similar mechanism of action, aiming to slow down cell death in the retina.

Both drugs are administered through eye injections and have shown statistically significant results in slowing the progression of GA lesions. While these treatments don’t reverse vision loss, they may help preserve central vision for a longer period, improving quality of life.

Gene Therapy and Stem Cell Research

In addition to new drug approvals, gene therapy continues to be a major area of focus. Trials such as GT005, developed by Gyroscope Therapeutics, are exploring how inserting specific genes into the eye can regulate proteins linked to inflammation and cell death in the retina. These therapies aim to provide long-lasting effects with fewer injections—possibly even a one-time treatment in the future.

Stem cell therapies are also under investigation, with research teams working on implanting lab-grown retinal cells to replace those lost to degeneration. Early trials have shown promise in safety and feasibility, though widespread application remains a few years away.

Antioxidants and Lifestyle Interventions Still Matter

While medical treatments advance, nutritional support and lifestyle choices remain crucial for managing early to intermediate stages of dry AMD.

The AREDS2 formula—a mix of lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and copper—has been shown to reduce the risk of progression in certain patients. In 2025, many eye care providers still recommend this supplement for individuals with signs of early AMD.

Key lifestyle factors that may help preserve vision include:

  • Quitting smoking
  • Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
  • Wearing UV-protective sunglasses
  • Eating a Mediterranean-style diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and healthy fats

Early Detection Is More Important Than Ever

With treatments now available, early diagnosis is critical. Comprehensive dilated eye exams allow eye doctors to detect macular degeneration before noticeable symptoms appear. Those with a family history of AMD should be especially proactive, scheduling regular check-ups starting in their 40s or 50s.

New imaging technologies like optical coherence tomography (OCT) can detect minute changes in retinal layers, allowing for faster identification of at-risk individuals.

Hope on the Horizon for Patients

Dry macular degeneration is no longer a condition without options. The recent approval of Syfovre and Izervay, along with exciting research in gene therapy and stem cell science, is revolutionizing how this disease is managed. Coupled with proactive lifestyle strategies and early detection, the outlook for patients in 2025 is more hopeful than ever.

If you or someone you love is dealing with vision changes or a diagnosis of AMD, speak to an eye care specialist about the latest treatments available. The future of eye health is evolving—and with it, the chance to protect your vision for years to come.

DICLAIMERS:

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Consult your ophthalmologist for personalized care.


https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/what-to-know-about-light-therapy-for-dry-macular-degeneration/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.verywellhealth.com/macular-degeneration-emerging-treatments-5071096?utm_source=chatgpt.com