Glaucoma, often referred to as the "silent thief of sight," is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Millions of people, especially those over 40, are afflicted by this chronic disease that damages the optic nerve through mechanisms not yet fully understood.
You can apply Traditional treatments like topical eyedrops, laser trabeculoplasty, and filtering surgery, which were the foundation for glaucoma management in the past.
However, the period from 2024 to 2025 has seen innovations coming into play, offering hope of novel and better treatments for many patients, with several just-approved products and other promising candidates now in Phase IIb or III clinical trials.
This article provides an overview of some of the latest drug, surgical, and technological approaches to treating glaucoma that have recently been approved by regulatory authorities or are now in late-stage evaluation.
These novel treatments from medical developments focus on lower intraocular pressure, with improvements to drug tolerability and dosing regimens potentially increasing compliance and, as a result, the possible extension of the time frame within which vision can be preserved
1. However, the new sustained-release drug formulations and alternative drug delivery systems are positioned to transform the treatment of glaucoma for the better, collectively addressing traditional problems with eyedrop-based treatments by this time next year.
a) Once-a-Week Eye Drops
Pharmaceutical companies have developed long-acting eye drops that require administration only once a week. These drops maintain stable intraocular pressure (IOP) over several days, improving convenience and reducing the risk of missed doses.
b) Nanotechnology-Enhanced Eye Drops
Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems allow better penetration and longer-lasting effects of glaucoma medications. By using nanocarriers, these drops can deliver medication precisely to the target tissues, minimizing side effects and maximizing IOP control.
2. Sustained-Release Drug Delivery Implants
One of the most promising developments for glaucoma treatment in 2024-2025 is sustained-release implants that deliver medications directly into the eye over several months.
a) Durysta® (Bimatoprost Implant)
Though approved earlier, Durysta's role has been expanded with enhanced versions in 2024 that last longer and release drugs in a more controlled manner.
b) New Biodegradable Implants: Implants are in development, are completely biodegradable, and will dissolve over time, eliminating the need for surgical removal and reducing any risks of long-term complications. This will provide continuous IOP control in a once-daily dosage.
3. Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – Latest Devices MIGS keeps evolving. The new devices and methods emerging in 2024-25 promise better results for a longer time.
a) iStent Infinite® and iStent Supra® Building on the successful model of the earlier iStent devices, both Infinite and Supra offer numerous stent placements in a single procedure, which heightens aqueous humor drainage and thus reduces IOP significantly. They are well-suited for moderate to severe glaucoma and can be used in combination with cataract surgery.
b) Hydrus® Microstent (Next-Gen Models)
The latest Hydrus Microstent versions have been optimized for easier insertion and better durability. They create a channel in Schlemm's canal, improving natural fluid outflow. The new models aim to prevent fibrosis, which can block the stent over time.
c) PRESERFLO™ MicroShunt Updates
PRESERFLO, a highly effective device for draining aqueous humor, has been updated for better biocompatibility and easier implantation. It will gain popularity in 2024 as a less invasive alternative to traditional glaucoma surgery.
4. Gene Therapy and Stem Cell Treatments
Although still largely in clinical trials, gene therapy and stem cell approaches will generate excitement in the glaucoma community in 2024-2025.
a) Gene Editing for IOP Reduction
Researchers are using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing techniques to target genes regulating intraocular pressure. Some early trials have shown promising IOP reduction for up to a year following a single treatment.
b) Stem Cell Therapy for Optic Nerve Regeneration
One of the most ambitious fronts in glaucoma treatment is regenerating damaged optic nerves using stem cells. New experiments have shown that animal models can partially regenerate retinal ganglion cells (the cells affected by glaucoma). Though human applications are in early testing, 2024 has seen the first human trials for stem cell-based optic nerve repair, bringing hope for reversing vision loss.
5. Smart Contact Lenses for Glaucoma Monitoring and Treatment Smart contact lenses are now becoming popular due to the development of this device. The entire interior of the cell phone has been embedded with sensors and cameras capable of continuously monitoring intraocular pressure (IOP).
a) Continuous IOP Monitoring Smart lenses provide real-time data about IOP fluctuations during the day, contrasting traditional methods. This allows ophthalmologists to tailor treatment plans based on individual variation.
b) Drug-Releasing Contact Lenses: some advanced Smart lenses can release glaucoma medicine directly onto your cornea when IOP climbs. This dual function of monitoring and medicating allows the treatment of glaucoma to become more machine-like. Patient responsibility levels have been greatly reduced; this has generally improved outcomes.
6. The Rise of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) 2.0 Laser treatment for glaucoma, especially Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), is becoming more precise and effective in 2024-2025.
a) SLT 2.0: Next-Gen Lasers
New SLT systems deliver more accurate and gentler pulses, reducing side effects while maintaining IOP-lowering efficacy. Thanks to these improvements, SLT is now considered a first-line treatment for angle closure glaucoma symptoms in many cases.
b) Repeatable and Long-Lasting Effects
SLT 2.0 has demonstrated longer-lasting pressure reduction and can be safely repeated, making it a non-invasive and effective alternative to medications for many patients.
7. Neuroprotective Treatments
Protecting the optic nerve from damage—beyond lowering eye pressure—is a critical focus of new treatments.
a) Neuroprotective Drugs
Emerging neuroprotective medications aim to shield the optic nerve from damage caused by fluctuating pressures. Drugs targeting glutamate toxicity and oxidative stress pathways are under clinical evaluation. Some experimental drugs have shown promise in slowing down nerve degeneration.
b) Mitochondrial Therapies
Since optic nerve cells depend heavily on mitochondrial energy, mitochondrial-targeted therapies are being tested to improve nerve cell survival, potentially preserving vision even if IOP isn't perfectly controlled.
8. AI-Powered Glaucoma Management Tools
Artificial intelligence plays a transformative role in early glaucoma detection and personalized treatment.
a) AI-Based Diagnostic Tools
On the one hand, AI-powered imaging tools and retinal scans can now detect glaucoma years before traditional symptoms appear--which means early intervention.
b) Custom Treatment With AI Machine learning algorithms, guided by knowledge of a patient's unique glaucoma risk profile, genetic background, and lifestyle factors, can predict disease progression and propose individualized treatment schedules that provide comprehensive services.
Parting Thoughts For anyone looking after glaucoma right now, 2024/5 sees a time of great hope. From innovative surgeries and better drug delivery systems to state-of-the-art gene and stem cell therapies that offer new promise for the many millions with this chronic condition, modern medical science is pulling out all stops.
Much of our work will continue to consider keeping the pressure down and protecting nerves. Some newer therapies may help regenerate now or in the future, changing the outlook of glaucoma completely.
If you or your family members have glaucoma, ask an eye care specialist about these new ways of treatment--because caring for current vision is an option.
Jacob Donglley 
