Macular Degeneration: Side Effects, Injections, and the Newest Shot Options

Macular degeneration, often called age-related macular degeneration (AMD), affects nearly 20 million Americans over the age of 40, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It damages the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. While it does not cause total blindness, it can significantly affect independence and quality of life. Recognizing the side effects early is critical for managing symptoms, slowing progression, and preserving vision. Patients often ask important questions such as: Do shots in the eye help with macular degeneration? What is the new shot for macular degeneration? These treatments have become central in slowing vision loss and supporting long-term quality of life.

The Main Side Effects of Macular Degeneration

1. Blurred or Distorted Central Vision

Straight lines may look bent or wavy, and fine details become harder to see. For example, a person might notice words on a page blending together, or a doorway appearing uneven.

2. Dark or Empty Spots in Vision

Patients often see a blind spot in the center of their vision. This makes tasks like threading a needle, reading signs, or driving especially difficult.

3. Difficulty Recognizing Faces

One of the most frustrating effects of AMD is struggling to recognize loved ones, even when peripheral vision is still intact.

4. Trouble Reading and Writing

Small print becomes nearly impossible to read without magnifiers or large-print materials. Even signing a check or writing notes can become a challenge.

5. Sensitivity to Bright Light and Glare

Everyday lighting may feel uncomfortably harsh, and transitions—like moving from a sunny sidewalk into a dim café—become harder for the eyes to adjust to.

6. Slower Adjustment After Light Changes

People with AMD may take much longer to see clearly when entering dark rooms or recovering from camera flashes or headlights at night.

7. Faded or Dull Color Vision

Over time, colors lose their brightness, making daily tasks such as matching clothes or cooking (judging if meat is undercooked, for example) more difficult.

8. Emotional and Psychological Impact

Vision loss doesn’t just affect the eyes—it also affects emotional well-being. Many patients report feelings of anxiety, depression, or isolation, especially as activities they once enjoyed (like reading or driving) become harder.

Types of Macular Degeneration and Their Side Effects

Dry AMD (Most Common): Progresses slowly, with gradual loss of central vision.
Wet AMD (Less Common but Severe): Can cause sudden vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina.

Wet AMD tends to cause more dramatic symptoms, such as sudden blurriness or straight lines appearing wavy overnight.

Managing Side Effects and Shots

Do Shots in the Eye Help with Macular Degeneration?

Yes. Anti-VEGF injections such as ranibizumab (Lucentis) and aflibercept (Eylea) block the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina. They can slow disease progression and, in some cases, improve vision.

What Is the New Shot for Macular Degeneration?

The newest FDA-approved treatment is faricimab (Vabysmo). It often requires fewer injections compared to older therapies, reducing the treatment burden while maintaining strong results.

Other Supportive Treatments

Low-Vision Aids: Magnifiers, high-contrast lighting, and electronic readers.
Lifestyle Choices: Quitting smoking, eating leafy greens, and wearing UV-blocking sunglasses.
Nutritional Supplements: The AREDS2 formula has been shown to slow progression in some patients.
Counseling and Support Groups: Addressing the emotional side is just as important as managing physical symptoms.

Daily Challenges for Patients

Driving: Night driving or reading road signs becomes unsafe.
Household Tasks: Cooking, sewing, or reading recipes is harder without adaptive tools.
Social Interactions: Difficulty recognizing faces may lead to withdrawal from social activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Shots in the Eye Help with Macular Degeneration?

Yes. For patients with wet AMD, anti-VEGF injections are the most effective treatment currently available. These shots slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, helping preserve vision and, in some cases, improve clarity.

What Is the New Shot for Macular Degeneration?

The newest FDA-approved treatment is faricimab (Vabysmo). Unlike older injections, it often requires fewer treatments over time, reducing the burden on patients while maintaining strong results.

Key Takeaway

Do shots in the eye help with macular degeneration? Yes—anti-VEGF injections are the most effective way to manage wet AMD. What is the new shot for macular degeneration? Faricimab (Vabysmo) is the latest option, offering extended treatment intervals. While there is no cure, combining medical care, lifestyle changes, and emotional support can help patients live independently and maintain quality of life.