EyeCool Therapeutics, a clinical-stage medical technology company, has announced encouraging results from a pilot study of its investigational device, ETX-4143. The device is designed to treat chronic ocular surface pain (COSP), a condition often linked to dry eye disease.
The Cambridge, Massachusetts-based company conducted a randomized, double-masked study in Australia with 31 patients. These results were first shared at the American European Congress of Ophthalmic Surgery Winter Symposium in Aspen, Colorado, and officially announced in May.
ETX-4143 is a non-invasive device used in outpatient eye clinics. It gently cools the surface of each eye for four minutes, targeting the myelinated long ciliary nerves responsible for ocular pain. EyeCool Therapeutics reported that many patients felt immediate relief, with further improvements in the following weeks.
Although the pilot study was not designed for statistical significance, EyeCool observed a significant reduction in eye pain severity. The device’s effectiveness was measured using a new patient-reported outcome tool created specifically for COSP. The company plans to submit full results for peer-reviewed publication soon.
EyeCool explained that the treated nerve fibers slowly regenerate myelin over two to three months. Patients may need follow-up treatments as symptoms return. Additionally, ETX-4143 may improve corneal sensitivity, providing further benefits.
Rebecca Petris, co-founder of the Dry Eye Foundation, emphasized the importance of addressing persistent eye pain. “Patients often describe symptoms like burning, grittiness, or irritation, but these are all pain symptoms,” she said. “We’re pleased to see research focusing directly on chronic ocular surface pain.”
Ophthalmologists also expressed optimism. Dr. Preeya K. Gupta from Triangle Eye Consultants noted that COSP often goes undiagnosed, leading to untreated pain. “ETX-4143 would be a very welcome addition to ocular surface therapies,” she said.
Dr. Alice Epitropoulos from Central Ohio Eye & Plastic Surgery added, “There is an unmet need for safe and effective COSP treatments. This device could fit well into clinical practice and help many patients.”
With positive pilot results, ETX-4143 represents a potential new option for managing chronic ocular pain and improving quality of life for affected patients.
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