Japan Debuts Novel Dry Eye Therapy - Scorecard - MDSpire

Japan Debuts Novel Dry Eye Therapy

Senju Pharmaceutical launches the first TRPV1 antagonist for dry eye in Japan

  • April 30, 2026

  • 3 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Japan Debuts Novel Dry Eye Therapy

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionDry Eye Disease (DED)
Key MechanismsTRPV1 antagonist activity
Target PopulationIndividuals with dry eye disease, particularly in Japan
Care SettingOphthalmology clinics and practices

Key Highlights

  • Avarept (motugivatrep) is the first marketed dry eye therapy in the TRPV1 antagonist class.
  • Over 20 million people in Japan are estimated to be affected by dry eye disease.
  • The approval was supported by the Japanese 3-02 clinical trial demonstrating significant symptom improvement.
  • Current management relies heavily on lubricants and anti-inflammatory approaches.
  • Avarept introduces a new mechanistic option for symptom control in DED.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess symptoms using the DEQS score.
  • Evaluate ocular surface condition.

Management

  • Consider Avarept for patients with moderate to severe dry eye symptoms.
  • Continue using lubricants and anti-inflammatory therapies as needed.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regularly assess symptom improvement and ocular surface health.
  • Monitor for any adverse effects associated with new therapies.

Risks

  • Potential adverse effects related to TRPV1 antagonism, though reduced in recent developments.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients suffering from dry eye disease in Japan.

Avarept provides a new option for symptom relief, addressing limitations of existing therapies.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Integrate Avarept into treatment plans for patients with inadequate relief from current therapies.
  • Educate patients on the mechanism of action and expected outcomes of Avarept.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Japan Debuts Novel Dry Eye Therapy

  • April 30, 2026

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