Pegaptanib for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
Pegaptanib sodium (Macugen) is a new drug that appears to be
effective in slowing the growth of abnormal blood vessels caused by advanced
(wet)
age-related macular degeneration.1 The treatment may help stop vision loss in people who cannot
benefit from other treatments such as laser photocoagulation or photodynamic
therapy.
When wet AMD develops, weak abnormal blood vessels grow under the
retina and lead to vision loss. The growth of these vessels is triggered by a
protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
Pegaptanib stops the growth of abnormal vessels by blocking the
effects of VEGF. Pegaptanib is injected into the eye every 6 weeks. A normal
course of treatment lasts 48 weeks.
Although most people tolerated treatment well in initial trials,
reported side effects of pegaptanib injections include:
Changes in vision.
Inflammation of
different parts of the
eye.
Cataract.
Bleeding.
Fluid in the
cornea.
Eye discharge.
Eye pain or
discomfort.
High blood pressure.
Increased pressure
inside the eye.
Many reported side effects may be caused by the actual injection
procedure rather than the drug itself.
Long-term effects of the drug are still not known.
Other types of anti-VEGF drugs are currently being studied, including
some that may be injected into a vein (intravenously) rather than into the
eye.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
