What are anti VEGF Agents

Anti Vascular endothelial Growth factor (anti VEGF) agents a group of medications which block the activity of VEGF and thus mitigate the abnormal effects of VEGF

How have anti VEGF treatment influenced the management of various eye conditions

Anti VEGF agents when administered under appropriate conditions act at molecular level countering the action of VEGF and thereby reducing the morbidity.

Many diseases which were considered untreatable earlier like age related macular degeneration are rendered treatable, enabling patients maintain quality vision and subsequent improvement in quality of life

Ocular manifestation of systemic diseases with diabetes hypertension are also now treated with anti VEGF agents, with quality vision being restored and maintained.

How do I choose the type of anti VEGF agent

The doctor examining you will prescribe the appropriate agents as per the disease process and systemic illness. Active bleeding or fluid leak at the back of the eye called macula warrants urgent treatment. The doctor will perform appropriate scans to confirm, quantify and monitor the progress of the disease. Vision is measured and is one of the yardsticks for monitoring response to treatment

How is the anti-VEGF agent administered

After clinical examination and relevant scans and making a diagnosis, the doctor will discuss the available options with the patient
The anti-VEGF agent is administered into the eye by means of a fine needle under sterile conditions in an operation theater.
The eyes are numbed with topical anaesthetic agent
Cleaning of eyes and surrounding structures with an antiseptic solution is done
Protective sheet called eye drape is applied around the eye
Eyelids are opened with a clip called an eyelid speculum
The doctor injects the drug through the white part of the eye through a fine needle
After injection, gentle massage is done at the site of injection
The eye clip is removed, and antibiotic drops are instilled in the eye

Antibiotic drops are prescribed for usage after injection in the eye.

What are the anti-VEGF agents available for treatment?

Bevacizumab
Ranibizumab
Aflibercept
Brolucizumab

Written by: Dr. Mohanraj – Consultant Ophthalmologist, Coimbatore

Retina Injection Therapy (Anti-VEGF)

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