Oculis Holding AG announced First Patient First Visit (FPFV) in its Phase 2b RELIEF trial evaluating the potential of licaminlimab (also known as OCS-02), Oculis? innovative anti-TNFa biologic eye drop, for the treatment of Dry Eye Disease (DED). The Phase 2b RELIEF trial is a multi-center, randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of licaminlimab for the treatment of signs and symptoms in moderate- to-severe DED.

Furthermore, the trial will evaluate if patients with a specific genetic biomarker identified in a prior trial respond better to licaminlimab. The trial was designed after several trials with licaminlimab in DED and Uveitis demonstrated positive findings. 120 patients are planned to be randomized to either licaminlimab or vehicle for a 6-week treatment and a 2-week follow up period.

Topline results are anticipated in mid-2024.