What is an Anti-VEGF Injection?
Anti-VEGF injections are one of the most effective treatments for retinal diseases like wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. This groundbreaking therapy works by injecting specialized medication directly into the eye to prevent abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage, which can lead to vision loss.
How Anti-VEGF Injections Work
The VEGF protein (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) plays a vital role in forming new blood vessels. While VEGF is necessary for normal bodily functions, excessive VEGF activity in the eye can lead to leaky, abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. This results in:
- Fluid accumulation
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Progressive vision loss
Anti-VEGF medications block VEGF, preventing the growth of these harmful blood vessels, which helps stabilize or even improve vision in patients with retinal diseases.
Conditions Treated with Anti-VEGF Injections
Anti-VEGF therapy has revolutionized the management of several vision-threatening retinal conditions, including:
- Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – A leading cause of blindness in older adults, where abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the macula leads to rapid central vision loss.
- Diabetic Retinopathy – High blood sugar levels can damage the retina, causing abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage.
- Retinal Vein Occlusion – A blockage in the retinal veins can lead to swelling, vision impairment, and abnormal blood vessel growth.
FDA-Approved Anti-VEGF Medications
Bevacizumab (Avastin) – Originally developed for cancer treatment but widely used off-label for eye conditions due to its affordability and effectiveness.
Ranibizumab (Lucentis) – Specifically designed for eye diseases, improving vision outcomes in many patients.
Aflibercept (Eylea) – Offers a longer duration of action, reducing the need for frequent injections.
Brolucizumab (Beovu) – A newer option providing better fluid control with the potential for extended dosing intervals.
What to Expect During an Anti-VEGF Injection
Anti-VEGF injections are administered by an ophthalmologist in a clinical setting. The procedure involves:
- Numbing the eye with anesthetic drops for comfort.
- Cleaning the eye with an antiseptic to prevent infection.
- Injecting the medication into the vitreous (the gel-like substance inside the eye) using a fine needle.
- Post-injection monitoring, with at-home care instructions to avoid rubbing the eye and watch for signs of complications.
Treatments are usually given at monthly or bi-monthly intervals, depending on the patient’s condition and response.
Are Anti-VEGF Injections Safe?
While generally safe, some potential side effects include:
- Mild discomfort or redness
- Temporary floaters or blurred vision
- Increased eye pressure
- Rare but serious complications like infection (endophthalmitis) or retinal detachment
Key Benefits
- Reduces retinal swelling and bleeding
- Stabilizes or improves vision
- Slows disease progression
- Prevents potential blindness
Is Anti-VEGF Therapy Right for You?
Anti-VEGF injections have transformed the treatment of retinal diseases, offering hope and improved quality of life for millions worldwide. If you have been diagnosed with wet AMD, diabetic retinopathy, or another retinal condition, consult your ophthalmologist to see if anti-VEGF therapy is right for you.
Call (865) 584-0905 to make an appointment at one of our convenient locations.