Eylea (Aflibercept) for AMD

Overview
Eylea is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It is for individuals who have abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina, which can lead to vision loss. Additionally, Eylea is indicated for macular edema following retinal vein occlusion, diabetic macular edema, diabetic retinopathy, and retinopathy of prematurity. Eylea is also known by its drug name, aflibercept.

Eylea belongs to a category of drugs known as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors. It works by blocking the activity of VEGF, a protein that promotes the growth of abnormal blood vessels. By inhibiting VEGF, Eylea helps reduce the growth of these abnormal vessels and decreases fluid leakage, helping to preserve vision.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Eylea is administered by intravitreal injection (injection into the eye). Initial dosing for neovascular AMD generally starts with doses approximately every 28 days for the first three months. After the initial three months, doses are generally administered once every two months. Dosing schedules vary from person to person, as determined by a health care provider. 

Side effects
According to the prescribing documentation, common side effects of Eylea include conjunctival hemorrhage (bleeding on the surface of the eye), eye pain, cataract, vitreous detachment (separation of the gel-like substance inside the eye), vitreous floaters (small moving spots in the vision), and increased intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye).

Rare but serious side effects may include endophthalmitis (eye infection), retinal detachments (retina pulls away from its normal position), retinal vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels in the retina) with or without occlusion (blockage). There is also a risk of arterial thromboembolic events (ATEs) such as nonfatal stroke, heart attack, and vascular death. Anyone taking this medication should report any signs of these conditions without delay and seek appropriate medical attention.

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Label: Eylea — Aflibercept Injection, Solution — DailyMed

Aflibercept Injection — MedlinePlus