Treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration: where we stand in 2024

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review highlights treatment options, both under investigation and currently available, for the treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). An update on current clinical studies for dry AMD has been summarized. RECENT FINDINGS: Advanced dry AMD, characterized by geographic atrophy (GA), is a leading cause of blindness in the developed world, though prior to 2023 there was no approved treatment. There are now two approved treatments in the United States for GA. Additionally, there are several studies and trials to investigate therapeutic potential and effects of therapies for earlier intervention in dry AMD. Approaches to therapy include inhibiting the complement system, utilizing gene therapy, stem cell therapy, laser therapy, and surgical implants. SUMMARY: While there has been notable prior advancement in the treatment for neovascular or wet AMD, for the first time there are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatments for GA. Clinical studies have shown promise for additional methods for managing dry AMD both medically and surgically.