Aflibercept is made from a human antibody fragment. It works by keeping new blood vessels from forming under the retina (a sensory membrane that lines the inside of the eye). In people with a certain type of eye disease, new blood vessels grow under the retina where they leak blood and fluid. This is known as the “wet form” of macular degeneration.
Aflibercept ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat wet age-related macular degeneration, swelling in the retina caused by a blockage in the blood vessels ( Vein Occlusion ) and to treat diabetic retinopathy, an eye disorder in diabetics that can lead to a build up of fluid in the retina and cause blindness.
Aflibercept ophthalmic is given as an injection into your eye. Your doctor will use a medicine to numb your eye before giving you the injection. You will receive this injection in your doctor’s office or other clinic setting.
For a short time after your injection, your eyes will be checked periodically to make sure the injection has not caused any side effects.
Aflibercept is usually given once every 4 weeks for the first 3 months, and then once every 8 weeks. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions very carefully.