Retinal detachment occurs when fluid separates the retina (a thin, light sensing tissue) from its usual attachment at the back of the eye. If detached, these retinal cells lose their normal blood supply and begin to die, which is the primary cause of vision loss in retinal detachment. The ‘macula’ refers to the very centre of the retina, with the highest density of retinal cells, most responsible for vision. Significant vision loss occurs when this part of the retina becomes separated (termed a ‘macula-off retinal detachment’). Typically, surgery is required to repair the retinal detachment.

Supporting the health of retinal cells at the macula may prolong their survival after detachment and their recovery postoperatively. Recent evidence has shown that boosting our nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels may improve the health of these cells and prolong their survival if detached. Oral Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is converted into NAD+, and while not studied for macula-off retinal detachments, has been safely used in a range of other conditions. This study is designed to help evaluate the safety and tolerability of NR to help preserve vision in people diagnosed with macula-off retinal detachment.

This study drug is given as an oral supplement (tablet) at the time of retinal detachment diagnosis, and daily for 20 weeks thereafter. The drug aims to prolong survival of cells in the retina (and macula) and their recovery after surgery.

The long-term goal of this treatment is to reduce loss of vision after retinal detachment. The researchers will compare NR to a placebo (a look-alike substance that contains no drug) to see if NR has a positive effect on photoreceptor survival and quality of vision postoperatively.

NR has been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration in Australia for many purposes but has not been approved for use in retinal detachment treatment.