Lucentis

Description

Indications:
Lucentis is used to treat the following conditions:

• Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
• Macular Edema Following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)
• Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)
• Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR & PDR) in patients with DME
• Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization (mCNV)
  Use as directed by a registered physician.

Pharmacology:
Lucentis contains ranibizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody fragment that binds to and inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). This action suppresses neovascularization (new blood vessel formation), endothelial cell proliferation, and vascular leakage.

Dosage & Administration (Intravitreal – Adult):

• Wet AMD: 0.5 mg monthly into the affected eye until vision stabilizes for 3 consecutive months.
• mCNV: 0.5 mg as a single dose. Additional injections may be given based on disease activity, with a minimum interval of 1 month.
• DME & RVO: 0.5 mg monthly until visual stability for 3 months. Stop if no improvement after 3 initial injections.

Interactions:
Using Lucentis with belimumab may increase adverse effects. Combining with verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) can cause severe intraocular inflammation.

Contraindications:
Do not use in patients with active or suspected ocular/periocular infection or severe intraocular inflammation. Avoid if there are signs of irreversible vision loss from retinal vein occlusion.

Side Effects:
Common: Ocular pain, eye irritation, increased intraocular pressure, vitreous detachment, visual disturbances, headache, and dry eye.
Severe: Endophthalmitis, blindness, retinal detachment, and traumatic cataract (rare).

Pregnancy & Lactation:
Pregnancy Category C: Use only if the benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus.

Precautions & Warnings:
Caution in patients with a history of retinal tears, stroke, uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes with HbA1c > 12%, or previous intravitreal injections. Stop treatment if retinal detachment or advanced macular hole develops.

Overdose Effects:
Overdosing may lead to increased intraocular pressure, vision loss, corneal edema, and eye pain. Monitor and treat as needed.

Storage Conditions:
Store at 2-8°C, protected from light.

Therapeutic Class:
Drugs for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Always consult a doctor before use.