FDA approval of First Geographic Atrophy Treatment and Authorization of First At-Home Combo COVID-19 and Flu Test – Xtalks Life Science Podcast Ep. 100

In this episode, Ayesha talked about the FDA approval of Apellis Pharmaceuticals’ Syfovre (pegcetacoplan injection) for the treatment of geographic atrophy, a leading cause of blindness. The condition is an advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) for which there have been no treatment options up until this recent approval. Hear more about the drug, including some questions about its clinical benefit.

Ayesha also talked about the FDA’s emergency use authorization (EUA) of Lucira Health’s over-the-counter (OTC) combination COVID-19 and flu diagnostic that can be administered at-home. The molecular PCR test is the first at-home combination test that can differentiate and detect the Influenza A, B and SARS-CoV-2 viruses in 30 minutes or less. The editorial team discussed the utility of the test, including settings in which they may be useful in and whether they may even be needed at all.