OKYO Pharma reports promising phase 2 results for urcosimod in neuropathic corneal pain

Ella Day | July 24, 2025 | News story | Research and Development |  OKYO Pharma, Opthalmology, clinical trial, neuropathic corneal pain, ocular pain 

OKYO Pharma has announced positive results from its phase 2 trial of urcosimod (formerly OK-101) in neuropathic corneal pain (NCP), an ocular condition characterised by chronic, nerve-related eye pain that currently lacks US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment.

Conducted at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, US, the trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of urcosimod in 18 patients. After 12 weeks, 75% of participants receiving urcosimod achieved more than 80% reduction in pain, as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale. Statistically significant improvements were noted by week four and were sustained through to the end of the trial. No serious adverse events were reported.

Pedram Hamrah, principal investigator of the study, described the results as “very exciting and extremely encouraging”, particularly given the severity of pain among participants. CEO of OKYO, Gary Jacob, added: “These results strengthen our conviction that this drug may be particularly effective in patients with a greater degree of neuropathic pain.”

With urcosimod already granted Fast Track designation by the FDA, OKYO anticipates further development. Several patients have also requested access via the FDA’s Expanded Access programme.

Urcosimod is a lipid-conjugated peptide designed to reduce inflammation and pain, and has previously shown promise in dry eye disease. OKYO Pharma is developing treatments for unmet needs in ocular pain and inflammation.

Ella Day
24/7/25