Home > AFLIBERCEPT

Aflibercept

This page provides concise information on the drug aflibercept, including its indications, dosage and administration, mechanism of action, associated brands with strengths, warnings, and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Aflibercept comprises the active ingredient aflibercept and is employed to address eye conditions leading to impaired vision caused by the development of abnormal blood vessels inside the eye. These conditions encompass wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema. Research indicates that this medication significantly diminishes the risk of vision loss and enhances visual acuity in individuals with these conditions. It is generally well-tolerated by most patients, and the injection procedure is typically swift and minimally invasive.
Aflibercept was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on November 18, 2011, for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Over time, it has obtained additional approvals for addressing various eye conditions, such as diabetic macular edema and macular edema resulting from retinal vein occlusion.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

VIEW ALL
Eylea 40mg Injection
Bayer Zydus Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹56693.00

Mechanism of Action of Aflibercept

Aflibercept functions by attaching to and inhibiting the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF is a protein that can stimulate abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the eye, resulting in vision loss. By blocking the activity of VEGF, this medication can effectively diminish abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage, thereby enhancing vision in certain individuals with these eye conditions.

Uses of Aflibercept

Aflibercept is a medication prescribed for diverse eye conditions, including neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema, and macular edema following retinal vein occlusion. Neovascular AMD involves the development of abnormal blood vessels in the retina, causing a decline in eyesight. Diabetic macular edema, on the other hand, is characterized by fluid accumulation in the macula, responsible for sharp and detailed vision in the central region of the retina.

Aflibercept Drug administaration and Dosage available

A medical professional will administer Aflibercept via injection around the eye in a clinical setting. The dosage and infusion frequency will be tailored to the patient’s medical condition, age, weight, and other relevant factors. It is important for individuals not to take a double dose in an attempt to compensate for a missed one.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Aflibercept

Warnings

Aflibercept carries the potential risk of causing endophthalmitis (an eye infection) and retinal detachment (the separation of the retina from underlying tissue). For patients with a history of cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke, the use of this medication may heighten the associated risks. Some individuals may experience a temporary elevation in blood pressure while using this medication. Prolonged use of Aflibercept is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
This medication has the potential to elevate intraocular pressure (IOP), which may result in glaucoma. The use of this medication has been associated with reports of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), a rare yet serious condition that can lead to the formation of blood clots in small blood vessels throughout the body, causing organ damage. Additionally, injection-related reactions, such as inflammation, pain, and redness at the injection site, have been documented with intravitreal injections, including this medication.

Precautions

Taking precautions is crucial when using Aflibercept. Individuals with allergies to the drug or its components should refrain from its use. Patients with pre-existing heart conditions or kidney disease require vigilant monitoring during the course of this medication. It is imperative to steer clear of contact with individuals carrying infectious illnesses, and any signs of infection should be promptly reported to your healthcare provider.
Other side effects such as bleeding, anemia, and thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) should be promptly reported to a doctor. Regular monitoring for elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is essential, and if needed, timely treatment should be administered. Blood pressure is also closely observed during the course of treatment, and individuals with uncontrolled hypertension require careful monitoring throughout. Adjustments in the treatment plan may be necessary to address side effects and optimize the overall treatment outcomes.

Side Effects

While Aflibercept is generally well-tolerated, like all medications, it may induce side effects. Common side effects encompass mild symptoms such as eye pain, redness, itching, and temporary changes in vision like blurriness or seeing floaters. Typically, these mild side effects resolve on their own within a few days to a week. Although serious side effects are rare, they can occur and may involve infections, inflammation, and bleeding in the eye, potentially leading to vision loss. In exceptional cases, allergic reactions or blood clots may also occur due to Aflibercept.

Word Of Advice

If you are undergoing treatment with Aflibercept, it is vital to promptly inform your healthcare provider of any experienced side effects or concerns. For individuals who are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits associated with the treatment. Patients with diabetic retinopathy should undergo close monitoring during the treatment period, as this medication has the potential to exacerbate the condition.
Should you encounter symptoms like eye pain, escalating redness of the eye, diminished or blurred vision, or heightened sensitivity to light during your treatment, it is imperative to promptly notify your doctor. Implementing lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and adhering to a nutritious diet can enhance overall health and diminish the risk of complications related to cancer. Emotional support from family, friends, or support groups can be beneficial in assisting cancer patients in navigating the challenges associated with their treatment.

Frequently Asked Question

The frequency of Aflibercept will depend on the specific condition being treated and the patient’s response to treatment. For wet AMD, patients typically receive an initial round of injections followed by regular maintenance injections every 4 to 8 weeks.
Yes, receiving Aflibercept will not correct refractive errors or cure any underlying eye conditions that nay require corrective lenses. Patients should continue to use any prescribed eyeglasses or contact lenses as directed by their healthcare provider
Yes, local anesthesia may be used before the Aflibercept to help reduce pain and discomfort before the procedure. The anesthesia type will depend on the patient’s needs and the healthcare provider’s preferences
While rare, there is a small risk of eye infections associated with Aflibercept. Patients should report any symptoms of eye infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, to their healthcare provider immediately
Yes, you can still receive Aflibercept if you have high blood pressure. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions, including high blood pressure, before starting treatment with Aflibercept. This is because some patients may experience increased blood pressure as a side effect of the medication.
If you have kidney problems, informing your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Aflibercept is important. While Aflibercept is primarily used to treat eye conditions and does not directly affect the kidneys, the medication is cleared from the body through the kidneys. Therefore caution may be needed in patients with impaired kidney function.

References

  1. Katzung BG, Trevor AJ. Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition; 2018, 637-654
  2. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th edition, 2018, 1113-114
  3. Bayer AG, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on Jan 2021] [ Accessed on 26th April 2023],https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2879.pdf
  4. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on Nov 2011] [ Accessed on 26th April 2021],https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/125387lbl.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.