Alcon has completed its acquisition of LumiThera Inc, which includes the company’s noninvasive photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The acquisition expands Alcon’s retinal treatment portfolio beyond surgical intervention.

The Valeda Light Delivery System is the first and only approved technology to demonstrate consistent visual improvement over 2 years in patients with early to intermediate dry AMD, according to data from the LIGHTSITE clinical trials. The PBM system uses low-level, nonlaser light to stimulate mitochondrial activity in retinal cells and is administered in a clinical setting.

Alcon said it intends to expand the availability of PBM therapy in approved markets and will continue to support ongoing clinical research. The Valeda system received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) de novo market authorization in November 2024, and it is also approved for use in Europe, several Latin American countries, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. In a press release, Alcon said that it plans to seek regulatory approval to expand Valeda into additional markets next year. RP