What is an Anti-VEGF Injection?

One of the most effective medicinal treatments for retinal disease is the injection of anti-VEGF (Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor). This groundbreaking therapy involves injecting specialized medications directly into the eye to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina addressing conditions such as wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion. VEGF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the formation of new blood vessels. While it is essential for normal bodily functions, excessive VEGF activity in the eye can lead to the growth of abnormal, leaky blood vessels beneath the retina. These vessels can cause fluid accumulation, bleeding and scarring, leading to vision loss. Anti-VEGF medications work by blocking the action of VEGF, thereby preventing the growth and leakage of these abnormal blood vessels. This helps to stabilize or improve vision in patients with retinal diseases.

Anti-VEGF therapy has revolutionized the management of several vision-threatening retinal conditions including wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in older adults that occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula, leading to rapid central vision loss. It is also used for diabetic retinopathy, where high blood sugar levels in diabetic patients can lead to retinal damage, including abnormal vessel growth and leakage. Additionally, it treats retinal vein occlusion which occurs when blockage of retinal veins leads to swelling and abnormal blood vessel growth, impairing vision.

There are several FDA-approved anti-VEGF drugs commonly used in clinical practice including Bevacizumab (Avastin), originally developed for cancer treatment but widely used off-label for eye conditions due to its effectiveness and affordability; Ranibizumab (Lucentis), specifically designed for ocular use and proven to improve vision outcomes in many patients; Aflibercept (Eylea), offering a longer duration of action and often preferred for patients requiring less frequent injections; and Brolucizumab (Beovu), a newer option providing effective fluid control with a potential for extended dosing intervals.

Anti-VEGF injections are typically administered in a clinical setting by an ophthalmologist. The procedure involves numbing the eye with anesthetic drops to minimize discomfort, cleaning the eye with antiseptic to prevent infection, carefully injecting the medication into the vitreous (gel-like substance) of the eye using a fine needle and post-injection care where patients are monitored briefly then given instructions for at-home care including avoiding rubbing the eye and recognizing signs of potential complications. The injections are usually administered at regular intervals, such as monthly or bi-monthly, depending on the patient’s condition and response to treatment.

While anti-VEGF injections are generally safe, some potential side effects may include mild discomfort or redness at the injection site, temporary floaters, blurred vision, increased eye pressure and rare but serious complications such as infection (endophthalmitis) or retinal detachment. Despite these potential side effects, anti-VEGF therapy has proven highly effective in preserving and even improving visual acuity for many patients. The key benefits include reduction of retinal swelling and bleeding, stabilization or improvement of vision and delayed disease progression with the potential prevention of blindness.

Anti-VEGF injections represent a major advancement in the treatment of retinal diseases, offering hope and improved quality of life for millions of individuals worldwide. Patients diagnosed with conditions such as wet AMD or diabetic retinopathy should consult their ophthalmologist to explore whether anti-VEGF therapy is the right option for their vision care needs.

To learn more, contact Associated Retina Consultants at 602-242-4928 or WEBSITE.