Glaucoma Research Foundation

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What is neuroprotection and when might it be available?

Neuroprotection is a broad term to cover any therapeutic strategy to prevent nerve cells called neurons from dying, and it usually involves an intervention, either a drug or treatment. Thanks to recent progress in scientific research, particularly in the area of genetic studies and neuroprotection strategies, it is very likely that in the next few years we will produce new neuroprotective therapies for treating glaucoma that will slow progression of the disease. However, because new drugs require many confirmatory tests and approval from the FDA, it could take up to 10 years before a drug can be used by patients.

Posted on June 12, 2009 1:25 PM