Five-Year Insights From the Pegcetacoplan Program

Lawrence J. Singerman, MD, FACS, reflects on clinical insights from the OAKS, DERBY, and GALE studies in geographic atrophy.

By: Lawrence J. Singerman, MD, FACS, Diana V. Do, MD

Retinal Physician June 24, 2026

Clinical Report: Five-Year Insights From the Pegcetacoplan Program

Overview

The five-year results from the pegcetacoplan program indicate that early and continuous treatment significantly delays the progression of geographic atrophy (GA) compared to projected sham outcomes.

Background

Geographic atrophy is a progressive retinal disease associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), leading to vision loss. Recent advancements in treatment, particularly with complement inhibitors like pegcetacoplan, have shown promise in slowing disease progression.

Data Highlights

Data from the GALE extension study indicate that five years of continuous pegcetacoplan treatment delayed GA progression by approximately 1.5 years compared to projected sham.

Key Findings

Continuous treatment with pegcetacoplan over five years resulted in delayed lesion growth in GA patients.
Early initiation of pegcetacoplan therapy is associated with better outcomes compared to later treatment initiation.
The phase 3 OAKS and DERBY trials demonstrated a reduction in GA lesion growth by 16-22% at 24 months.
Long-term analyses from the GALE extension study support sustained benefits of pegcetacoplan therapy.
Adverse reactions associated with pegcetacoplan include retinal vasculitis and retinal vascular occlusion.

Clinical Implications

Ongoing monitoring for potential adverse effects is essential.

Conclusion

The five-year insights from the pegcetacoplan program provide valuable data for clinical practice.

PentaVision

Retinal Physician