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Aflibercept: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein (a "VEGF-trap") administered by intravitreal injection.

Forms:IV Infusion

About Aflibercept

Indications of Aflibercept

Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein (a "VEGF-trap") administered by intravitreal injection. It is FDA-approved for the following ophthalmic indications:

  • Neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – established, FDA-approved primary indication.
  • Diabetic macular edema (DME) – established, FDA-approved indication.
  • Diabetic retinopathy (DR), with or without DME – established, FDA-approved indication.
  • Macular edema following retinal vein occlusion (RVO), both central and branch RVO – established, FDA-approved indication.
  • Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants – FDA-approved indication using a lower, weight-adjusted dose.

Aflibercept is not curative; it reduces disease-related vision loss and requires an individualized, ongoing injection schedule determined by a qualified ophthalmologist.

Dosage & Administration of Aflibercept

Aflibercept is administered only as an intravitreal injection (2 mg/0.05 mL per eye) by a qualified ophthalmologist experienced in intravitreal procedures, under strict aseptic technique. Recommended dosing schedules differ by indication:

IndicationInitial PhaseMaintenance Phase
Neovascular (wet) AMD2 mg every 4 weeks for the first 3 injections2 mg every 8 weeks thereafter; some patients may need every-4-week dosing
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)2 mg every 4 weeks for the first 5 injections2 mg every 8 weeks thereafter
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR)2 mg every 4 weeks for the first 5 injections2 mg every 8 weeks thereafter
Macular Edema following RVO2 mg every 4 weeksContinued monthly dosing; interval extension considered based on response
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), preterm infants0.4 mg (0.01 mL) single dose per eyeRepeat only if disease reactivation is documented, per specialist assessment

No dose adjustment of Aflibercept is required for renal or hepatic impairment, as systemic exposure after intravitreal use is minimal.

Side Effects of Aflibercept

The most common adverse reactions associated with Aflibercept injection relate to the eye and the injection procedure itself:

  • Conjunctival hemorrhage
  • Eye pain
  • Cataract
  • Vitreous floaters/detachment
  • Increased intraocular pressure
  • Corneal abrasion

Serious but uncommon reactions include endophthalmitis, retinal detachment, retinal tear, traumatic cataract from the injection, and rarely, arterial thromboembolic events such as stroke or myocardial infarction, recognized as a class effect of intravitreal anti-VEGF agents (see Precautions and Warnings). Patients should seek prompt ophthalmologic evaluation for any sudden change in vision or eye symptoms after an Aflibercept injection.

Contraindications of Aflibercept

Aflibercept is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Ocular or periocular infection.
  • Active severe intraocular inflammation.
  • Known hypersensitivity to Aflibercept or to any component of the formulation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aflibercept

What is Aflibercept used for?

Aflibercept is an anti-VEGF injection used by ophthalmologists to treat wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, diabetic retinopathy, macular edema after retinal vein occlusion, and, at a lower dose, retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants.

How is Aflibercept given?

Aflibercept is given only as an intravitreal injection directly into the eye by a qualified ophthalmologist under sterile conditions in a clinic or operating room; it is never self-injected at home.

How often will I need Aflibercept injections?

Most patients start with monthly Aflibercept injections for the first 3 to 5 doses, after which the ophthalmologist may extend the interval to every 8 weeks or longer depending on how the eye responds. Aflibercept treatment is usually needed on an ongoing basis, as it controls but does not cure the underlying retinal disease.

What warning signs should I report after an Aflibercept injection?

Contact your ophthalmologist immediately if you notice eye pain, worsening redness, sensitivity to light, blurred or decreased vision, or a sudden increase in floaters after an Aflibercept injection, as these can be signs of rare but serious complications such as endophthalmitis (infection) or retinal detachment.

Is Aflibercept safe during pregnancy?

Aflibercept should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, since Aflibercept can affect blood vessel growth important for fetal development; always consult your physician before using Aflibercept if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Who should not receive Aflibercept?

Aflibercept should not be given to patients with an active infection in or around the eye, active severe inflammation inside the eye, or known hypersensitivity to Aflibercept or its ingredients.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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