Experience With Cenegermin-bkbj in Treating Patients With NK

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Cenegermin-bkbj has demonstrated remarkable efficacy across all stages of neurotrophic keratitis (NK), with Francis Mah, MD, and Lauren McLoughlin, OD, incorporating it into their treatment protocols for stages 1 through 3 disease. The medication's effectiveness addresses the most challenging aspect of NK management: achieving durable healing in a traditionally difficult-to-treat condition. Clinical trials demonstrated approximately 70% healing rates, substantially improving historical treatment outcomes.

Accessibility concerns, typically associated with specialized FDA-approved medications, have proven less problematic than initially anticipated. While prior authorization requirements exist, Mah and McLoughlin report successful insurance coverage and reasonable patient access through the manufacturer's support programs. The medication requires special ordering and delivery rather than standard pharmacy dispensing, but this process has proven manageable in clinical practice.

The most impressive aspect of cenegermin therapy involves treatment durability, addressing the chronic recurrent nature of NK. FDA registration trial data demonstrate that patients who achieve healing typically maintain their improvement for extended periods, with the majority remaining healed 1 year post treatment. This durability distinguishes cenegermin from supportive therapies that may achieve temporary healing but fail to provide long-term stability. Some patients have required retreatment after 2 to 3 years but respond well to repeat courses without tolerance or delayed efficacy issues.