Anti-VEGF medications, including Eylea and Avastin, are revolutionizing the treatment of retinal diseases. These innovative therapies effectively target abnormal blood vessel growth to preserve your vision.
Anti-VEGF medications are treatments designed to block the actions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that when overactive can lead to abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the eye. These medications, including aflibercept (Eylea) and bevacizumab (Avastin), have become essential in managing several retinal conditions. Their ability to reduce swelling and prevent further retinal damage has made them a cornerstone in preserving vision for many patients.
VEGF is a protein critical for the formation of new blood vessels—a process that is normally essential for healing and maintaining bodily functions. However, excessive VEGF activity in the eye triggers the growth of abnormal and fragile blood vessels on the retina. These leaky vessels can lead to swelling, fluid accumulation, and eventual damage to the delicate retinal tissue, ultimately threatening vision.
By blocking or “trapping” VEGF, anti-VEGF medications can treat various retinal conditions that stem from these abnormal processes. It is this targeted approach that has revolutionized treatment options for retinal diseases, offering hope to those at risk of significant vision loss.
Both aflibercept (Eylea) and bevacizumab (Avastin) function by binding to VEGF in the eye, thereby preventing it from stimulating the growth of abnormal blood vessels. When VEGF is inhibited, the resulting cascade decreases fluid leakage and swelling, supporting a more stable microenvironment in the retina. Our eye doctors ensure that this treatment addresses the underlying issues causing many retinal disorders.
Eylea acts as a VEGF trap, effectively decoying VEGF molecules before they can bind to receptors on retinal cells. In contrast, Avastin is a monoclonal antibody that directly binds to VEGF, blocking its actions. Despite the differences in their molecular designs, both medications successfully reduce the damage caused by abnormal vascular growth and leakage.
Contact us today to find a top optometrist or ophthalmologist near you and discuss the best treatment options available.
These anti-VEGF medications are widely used to treat several retinal conditions, thanks to their ability to target abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce retinal swelling. When used appropriately, they offer significant benefits in stabilizing or even improving vision over time.
Aflibercept, marketed as Eylea, is FDA-approved for treating wet AMD, diabetic macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion among other conditions. Specifically engineered for ocular use, Eylea offers a targeted approach toward eye disorders, directly addressing the VEGF responsible for the abnormal vascular growth and leakage.
Eylea works as a "VEGF trap" by binding to VEGF before it has the chance to interact with the receptors on the retinal cells. Its ability to block multiple types of VEGF not only curbs abnormal blood vessel formation but also reduces swelling and fluid leakage in the retina. This decoy mechanism ensures that the disease process is halted, preserving the structure and function of the retina.
One of the key advantages of Eylea is that it tends to last longer in the eye compared to some other anti-VEGF medications. This longer duration means that patients might need fewer injections overall, a significant benefit for those who find frequent office visits challenging.
Eylea injections are typically administered every four to eight weeks, depending on the patient’s response and the severity of the condition. Over time, some patients may even transition to a less frequent injection schedule as their retina stabilizes. Each injection is performed as an outpatient procedure, ensuring that you remain comfortable and well-cared-for throughout the treatment process.
The procedure begins with numbing drops to minimize discomfort, followed by a sterilization of the eye to prevent infection. A very fine needle then delivers the medication directly into the vitreous—the gel-like substance in the center of the eye. After the injection, our eye doctors monitor your vision to ensure that there are no complications, and you are typically allowed to resume normal activities soon after.
While Eylea is generally safe and well tolerated, like all medical treatments, it may come with some side effects. Most of these are mild and temporary, though it’s important to recognize the signs that require immediate attention.
Our eye doctors carefully evaluate your overall health, medication history, and any underlying conditions before recommending Eylea, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the potential risks for your specific situation.
Contact us today to find a top optometrist or ophthalmologist near you and discuss the best treatment options available.
Understand how anti-VEGF medications like Eylea and Avastin can help manage retinal diseases and preserve your vision.
