Aflibercept is an injectable medication primarily used to treat various serious eye conditions, including:
Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): A condition where new blood vessels grow under the retina, leading to blood and fluid leakage.
Macular Edema following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO): Swelling in the retina caused by a blockage in the blood vessels.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Fluid build-up in the retina due to leaking blood vessels.
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR): An eye disorder in diabetics that can lead to blindness.
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP): An eye condition in premature babies affecting the retina12.
Aflibercept works by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), preventing the formation of new blood vessels under the retina2. It is administered by a healthcare professional through an injection into the eye, typically every one to two months2.
Common side effects include conjunctival hemorrhage, ocular pain, and cataracts1. Serious side effects can include retinal detachments, eye infections, and increased eye pressure2.
Given your interest in biosimilars and monoclonal antibodies, aflibercept is a notable example of a biologic therapy used in ophthalmology. If you have any specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask!