Looking Good! OKYO Pharma Doses First Patient in Phase 2 Trial for Corneal Neuropathic Pain, Shares Rise 15%

OKYO Pharma (NASDAQ: OKYO) has announced the dosing of the first patient in its Phase 2 clinical trial of OK-101, a novel, non-opioid treatment for neuropathic corneal pain (NCP), marking a significant milestone in the development of the first drug specifically targeting this condition. NCP, often resulting from eye surgery, infections, or conditions like dry eye disease, currently lacks FDA-approved treatment options. The 12-week, placebo-controlled trial will enroll 48 patients.

The trial is being led by Dr. Pedram Hamrah of Tufts Medical Center, a leading expert in the field, and aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of OK-101. This development represents a key advancement in addressing an unmet need for NCP patients, whose current treatment options are limited to off-label therapies.

Dr. Gary S. Jacob, CEO of OKYO Pharma commented, “We are excited to announce the enrollment of the first patient in our Phase 2 clinical trial of OK-101. This is a key step forward in our mission to provide relief for patients suffering from neuropathic corneal pain, a chronic condition for which no FDA-approved treatments exist today. OK-101 represents a potential breakthrough in the treatment of this condition, and we remain committed to advancing its development with the goal of delivering a novel therapeutic option to patients in need.”

OKYO Pharma’s shares are up 20% following the news of the first patient enrollment.

OK-101 works by targeting the ChemR23 receptor involved in inflammatory responses, aiming to reduce pain and inflammation in the cornea. The trial will provide valuable insights into the potential of OK-101 as a breakthrough therapy for NCP.