Alcon today announced its intention to acquire LumiThera and its photobiomodulation (PBM) device for the treatment of early and intermediate dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
In dry AMD, vision loss results from the dysfunction and break down of retinal cells within the macula—the part of the retina that allows for sharpness and fine detail in seeing what’s directly in front of the viewer. In the early stages, central vision becomes distorted and may ultimately progress to a complete loss, making everyday activities difficult, like reading, driving and even recognizing faces.
PBM received FDA de novo market authorization in November 2024 and received CE Mark in November 2018. PBM is currently available in Europe, Latin America, Singapore, the U.K. and the U.S.
The transaction does not include the acquisition of AdaptDx and Nova/Diopsys diagnostic devices, which will be separated and spun-off to LumiThera’s shareholders prior to Alcon’s acquisition and will continue to be marketed and sold by the LumiThera spin-off. Subject to customary closing conditions and a LumiThera shareholder vote, Alcon and LumiThera anticipate the acquisition to be completed in the third quarter of 2025.
