Unsuccessful Clinical Trials in Retina: Lessons Learned

To analyze patterns of nonsuccess in phase 2 and 3 interventional retinal clinical trials conducted in the United States between 2015 and 2025.

Perspective based on retrospective analysis of unsuccessful clinical trials.

Unsuccessful trials that were terminated, withdrawn, or completed without meeting primary endpoints were evaluated across indications, trial phases, intervention classes, and mechanisms of action to identify recurring design, feasibility, and operational challenges.

High attrition rates were observed across diabetic macular edema, diabetic retinopathy, neovascular age-related macular degeneration, and geographic atrophy. Phase 2 trials were more frequently discontinued following interim analyses, whereas phase 3 trials more often failed to meet primary efficacy endpoints. Later-phase studies were associated with increased sample size, geographic dispersion, follow-up duration, and assessment burden. Differences in endpoint selection, comparator choice, and population heterogeneity may contribute to attenuation of treatment effects. Operational and sponsor-level factors, including strategic and financial considerations, were also associated with trial discontinuation.

Translating early-stage findings into successful late-phase outcomes remains challenging in retinal drug development. Improved alignment of biological rationale, endpoint selection, and operational feasibility may enhance trial success.