Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy affects about 2,000 people in England. It primarily affects the cells that make up the optic nerve (Getty/iStock) via The Independent
The National Health Service in England now provides the new treatment for Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) which affects rare genetic patients who lose their vision suddenly. The approved drug idebenone (Raxone) provides treatment to patients aged 12 and above by enhancing cellular energy production to restore optic nerve cell functionality. The treatment results in vision improvement for about half of patients according to clinical research which leads to substantial enhancements in their life quality. The NHS approval of idebenone (Raxone) for 250 eligible patients represents the first time the service has authorized treatment for any mitochondrial disease thus bringing new possibilities to LHON patients.
Reference:
The Independent. (2025, September 11). Groundbreaking sight loss treatment now available on NHS England. The Independent. https://www.the-independent.com/news/health/idebenone-nhs-england-vision-loss-b2824545.html
