Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration usually affects older adults. It results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field. This is due to damage of the retina. There are two forms
Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD). This is a more common and initially less serious type. It results from deposits (Drusen) that form under the retina. It can become serious possibly leading to Wet AMD.
Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD). This more serious type
results in the growth of abnormal and leaky blood vessels. The result is central
vision loss.
Learn more by watching
this video of ARMD, Grid Test
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration include blurred vision, missing areas of
vision, wavy or distorted lines noticeable while reading, difficulty discerning
colors, or prolonged vision recovery after exposure to bright light.
Ranibizumab Injection (Known as Lucentis® or Avastin®)
Why is this medication prescribed?
Ranibizumab is used to treat wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD; an
ongoing disease of the eye that causes loss of the ability to see straight ahead
and may make it more difficult to read, drive, or perform other daily
activities). Ranibizumab is in a class of medications called vascular
endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) antagonists. It works by blocking abnormal
blood vessel growth and leakage in the eye(s) that may cause vision loss in
people with wet AMD.
How should this medicine be used?
Ranibizumab comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected into the eye by a board
certified retinal specialist such as our own Mark Montag, MD. It is usually
given in a doctor's office every month. Dr. Montag may give you injections on a
different schedule if that is best for you.
Before you receive a ranibizumab injection, Dr. Montag will clean your eye to prevent infection and numb your eye to reduce discomfort during the injection. You may feel pressure in your eye when the medication is injected. After your injection, your doctor will need to examine your eyes before you leave the office.
Ranibizumab controls wet AMD, but does not cure it. Dr. Montag will watch you carefully to see how well ranibizumab works for you.Speak with Dr. Montag as to the length of time these injections will continue. Remember not only is each patient different, but each eye as well.
