Eylea (aflibercept) is a prescription injection used to treat several eye conditions that can lead to vision loss. It works by blocking the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye and reducing fluid buildup, helping to maintain or improve vision. Approved by the FDA, Eylea is commonly used for conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), and retinal vein occlusion (RVO). This article covers everything you need to know about Eylea, including its uses, benefits, side effects, and what to expect during treatment.
How Eylea Works
Eylea is a type of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medication. VEGF is a protein that plays a role in the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. These abnormal vessels can leak fluid or blood, leading to vision problems. By blocking VEGF, Eylea helps prevent further damage to the eye and, in many cases, improves vision.
Conditions Treated by Eylea
Eylea is commonly used to manage the following conditions:
- Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD) – A chronic eye condition that causes blurred or lost vision due to abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina.
- Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) – A complication of diabetes that leads to fluid buildup in the macula, causing vision impairment.
- Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) – A condition that damages blood vessels in the retina and can result in vision loss.
- Macular Edema Following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) – A blockage in the veins of the retina that causes swelling and fluid leakage.
Eylea Injection Procedure
Eylea is administered as an injection directly into the eye. The procedure is performed by an ophthalmologist and follows these steps:
- The eye is numbed using anesthetic drops to prevent pain.
- The area around the eye is cleaned to reduce the risk of infection.
- A fine needle is used to inject the medication into the eye’s vitreous (the gel-like substance inside the eye).
- The patient may be asked to rest for a short period after the injection.
The treatment schedule typically starts with monthly injections for the first few months, followed by maintenance doses every 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the patient’s response.
Benefits of Eylea
- Helps slow or stop vision loss in patients with serious retinal diseases.
- May improve vision in some cases, allowing patients to regain clarity.
- Requires fewer injections over time compared to some other anti-VEGF treatments.
Possible Side Effects
Like any medical treatment, Eylea has potential side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require immediate medical attention.
Common Side Effects:
- Mild discomfort or redness in the eye
- Temporary blurred vision
- Sensation of a foreign object in the eye
Serious Side Effects (Rare):
- Eye infections (endophthalmitis)
- Increased eye pressure (glaucoma)
- Retinal detachment
If you experience severe pain, vision loss, or unusual eye discharge after an injection, seek medical help immediately.
Who Should Avoid Eylea?
Eylea may not be suitable for people with:
- Active eye infections
- A history of severe allergic reactions to any ingredients in the injection
- Uncontrolled glaucoma
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before receiving Eylea, as its effects on unborn or nursing infants are not well known.
Conclusion
Eylea is a proven treatment for serious eye diseases that can lead to vision loss. By reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage, it helps many patients maintain or improve their sight. While it comes with some risks, the benefits often outweigh them, making it a vital option for those with conditions like wet AMD, DME, and RVO. If you or a loved one are considering Eylea, consult an eye specialist to determine if it is the right choice for you.
