Administered through injections into the eye, Eylea works by inhibiting abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the retina, thereby preserving vision. For individuals diagnosed with these eye conditions, understanding how Eylea injections work and what to expect during treatment is crucial for better management and improved outcomes.
How Eylea Works
Eylea is classified as an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medication. It functions by blocking the activity of VEGF, a protein that promotes the growth of abnormal blood vessels. When VEGF levels are elevated in the eye, it can lead to the development of new, fragile blood vessels that leak fluid or blood, causing swelling and damage to the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision.
The primary mechanism of Eylea involves binding to VEGF-A and placental growth factor (PlGF), preventing these factors from interacting with their receptors on the surface of endothelial cells. This action helps reduce the formation of abnormal blood vessels and fluid accumulation in the retina, ultimately preserving vision and preventing further deterioration.
Conditions Treated with Eylea
Eylea is used to manage several serious eye conditions that affect the retina, such as:
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Eylea is primarily used to treat wet AMD, where abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, leading to vision loss.
- Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): DME occurs when fluid accumulates in the macula due to leaking blood vessels caused by diabetes. Eylea helps reduce swelling and fluid leakage in the macula, improving visual acuity.
- Diabetic Retinopathy (DR): DR is a complication of diabetes that affects the retina and can lead to severe vision loss. Eylea is used to treat both proliferative and non-proliferative DR by reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and bleeding.
- Macular Edema following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO): RVO is a blockage in the veins that carry blood away from the retina, causing swelling and vision impairment. Eylea helps reduce macular edema associated with RVO.
What to Expect During Eylea Injections
For those who are new to Eylea injections, it is natural to have questions about the procedure and what to expect. The process is relatively straightforward and performed in an ophthalmologist's office.
Before the Injection
Before administering Eylea, your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination to determine the suitability of the treatment.
During the pre-treatment consultation:
- The doctor will review your medical history and any medications you are currently taking.
- Your eye will be numbed using anesthetic eye drops to minimize discomfort during the injection.
- The eye and surrounding area will be cleaned to reduce the risk of infection.
The Injection Procedure
The actual injection process is quick, typically taking only a few minutes. Here’s what happens during the injection:
- Once the eye is anesthetized and sterile, the ophthalmologist will gently hold the eye open.
- Using a fine needle, the Eylea injection is administered directly into the vitreous, the gel-like substance in the back part of the eye.
- The patient may feel slight pressure or discomfort, but the procedure is generally painless due to the local anesthesia.
After the Injection
After the injection, the doctor may apply antibiotic drops to prevent infection. Patients are usually monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate side effects, such as increased eye pressure or discomfort. The following points summarize the post-injection experience:
- Mild Discomfort: Some patients may experience mild irritation, redness, or a gritty sensation in the eye after the injection. These symptoms usually subside within a few days.
- Blurred Vision: Temporary blurred vision may occur, but it typically resolves within a day or two.
- Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor progress and determine the frequency of subsequent injections.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
While Eylea injections are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and risks, which may include:
- Infection (Endophthalmitis): A serious but rare complication that can occur after an eye injection. Signs include severe eye pain, redness, and vision loss.
- Increased Intraocular Pressure: Some patients may experience a temporary rise in eye pressure following an injection.
- Retinal Detachment or Tear: Although rare, this can occur if the retina is accidentally damaged during the injection.
- Cataract Formation: The risk of developing cataracts may increase with repeated injections.
Patients should report any sudden changes in vision, persistent pain, or signs of infection to their ophthalmologist immediately.
Frequency of Eylea Injections
The frequency of Eylea injections depends on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to therapy. Typically, the treatment schedule may involve:
- Initial Loading Dose: For wet AMD and DME, patients may receive injections once a month for the first three months.
- Maintenance Dose: After the initial phase, injections are administered every 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the patient’s progress and the physician’s recommendation.
It’s crucial to adhere to the treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Conclusion
Eylea injections offer an effective solution for managing several serious eye conditions that lead to vision loss, including AMD, DME, DR, and RVO. By inhibiting abnormal blood vessel growth and reducing fluid leakage, Eylea helps preserve vision and improve the quality of life for patients. For those undergoing treatment, understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help alleviate concerns and ensure a positive experience. Regular consultations with an eye care specialist and adherence to the treatment regimen are essential for achieving optimal results with Eylea injections.
