Iveric Bio Awarded Permanent J-code for GA Treatment, Izervay
In a significant development for patients with geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Iveric Bio, a subsidiary of Astellas Pharma, has been granted a unique, permanent J-code by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for its innovative treatment, Izervay (avacincaptad pegol intravitreal solution).
Marking a pivotal moment in the healthcare and pharmaceutical landscape, the assignment of J-code J2782, effective from April 1, 2024, heralds a new era in the streamlined billing and reimbursement process for this vital treatment.
The Impact of J-Codes on Healthcare
J-codes are instrumental in the United States healthcare system, simplifying the billing and reimbursement procedure for intravitreal injections among other treatments, benefiting government and commercial payers, physicians, and their office staff alike. The introduction of J2782 is set to significantly enhance patient access to Izervay across the US, facilitating a smoother treatment journey for thousands battling the severe visual impairments associated with GA.
Izervay: A New Dawn in GA Treatment
Izervay represents a landmark in GA treatment, having been launched in the U.S. in September 2023. In the months following its introduction, over 40,000 vials of Izervay have been distributed to physician practices, indicating the high demand and trust in this innovative therapy. The treatment stands out for its targeted approach towards slowing GA progression, directly addressing the underlying causes of retinal cell death and the consequent loss of photoreceptors, offering hope to those affected by this debilitating condition.
FDA Approval and the Future of Izervay
This breakthrough came on the heels of the FDA's approval in August 2023, validating Izervay as a significant advancement in the fight against GA secondary to AMD. The now-permanent J-code is a testament to the treatment's efficacy and its potential to improve the quality of life for patients by preserving vision.
About Geographic Atrophy Secondary to AMD
Geographic Atrophy (GA) is an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss among the elderly population worldwide. GA is characterized by the progressive degeneration of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision necessary for activities like reading and driving. This condition manifests as atrophic patches in the macula, leading to significant visual impairment and, in severe cases, legal blindness.
Unlike the "wet" form of AMD, which can develop rapidly due to abnormal blood vessel growth, GA progresses more slowly and is associated with the gradual loss of photoreceptor cells and the underlying retinal pigment epithelium. The exact pathogenesis of GA is complex and multifactorial, involving genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and metabolic processes.
