The Department of Eye Research at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital (MREH) has successfully recruited and treated the 1st UK patients for the SYNCHRONIZE 301 and 303 research studies which test the effectiveness of a non-antibiotic drug called SHP640 for people with viral and bacterial conjunctivitis.
SYNCHRONIZE is an international clinical trial led locally by Mr Felipe Dhawahir-Scala, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Director of the Acute Ophthalmic Services at MREH. This phase 3 trials is investigating the efficacy and safety of antiseptic and corticosteroid eye drops SHP640, in treating viral and bacterial conjunctivitis compared to conventional medications.
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are two of the most common types of eye infection, affecting people of any age. Symptoms can cause redness, irritation and soreness of one or both eyes. In severe cases, current treatment such as antibiotic drops may be required.
Mr Dhawahir-Scala said;
“It can be difficult to differentiate between viral and bacterial conjunctivitis so we’re investigating whether one drug can treat both conditions. If effective it will also allow us to prescribe fewer antibiotics, which is important when treating patients for less serious conditions.”
Monika Cien, Clinical Trials Manager at the Department of Eye Research, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, said:
“We are proud to have recruited the first UK patients to both SYNCHRONIZE 301 and 303 studies. This wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and efficiency of our team, who ensured we were in a position to start recruitment as soon as the study was initiated at the hospital.”
The SYNCHRONIZE 301 and SYNCHRONIZE 303 research studies are supported by the National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network: Greater Manchester (NIHR CRN: GM) and sponsored by Shire Human Genetic Therapies PLC.
