Aflibercept
Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein that acts as a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor. It binds to VEGF and other related growth factors, reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage, particularly in the eye. It is commonly used in ophthalmology to treat conditions related to macular degeneration and other retinal diseases.-Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Used to treat neovascular (wet) AMD. -Macular edema: Indicated for macular edema following retinal vein occlusion (RVO). -Diabetic macular edema (DME): Used to treat DME. -Diabetic retinopathy (DR): Approved for treating diabetic retinopathy in patients with DME.
-AMD: Typically, 2 mg (0.05 mL) is administered by intravitreal injection every four weeks for the first three doses, followed by one injection every eight weeks. -Macular edema and DR: 2 mg (0.05 mL) injected intravitreally every four weeks for five doses, then every eight weeks thereafter. -Always follow the prescribed dosage regimen as directed by a healthcare provider.
-Hypersensitivity: Not recommended for patients with known hypersensitivity to aflibercept or any other components of the injection. -Ocular infection: Contraindicated in patients with active ocular or periocular infections.
-Infection Risk: Intravitreal injections can increase the risk of endophthalmitis, an eye infection. -Intraocular Pressure: Temporary increases in intraocular pressure may occur after the injection. -Monitoring: Patients should be closely monitored for complications like retinal detachment and infection.
-Common: Conjunctival hemorrhage, eye pain, and vitreous floaters. -Serious: Endophthalmitis, increased intraocular pressure, and retinal detachments. -Less Common: Cataracts, vitreous hemorrhage, and keratitis.
-No known significant drug interactions with systemic medications. -Localized eye treatments should be used with caution, and healthcare providers should be informed about other eye medications the patient may be using.
