Why is this medication prescribed?

Eylea (aflibercept) is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of various eye conditions, most commonly age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), and macular edema following retinal vein occlusion (RVO). These conditions can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Eylea HD works by inhibiting the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reducing swelling and leakage in the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.

How should this medicine be used?

Eylea HD (aflibercept) is typically administered as an injection into the eye by a qualified healthcare professional, such as an ophthalmologist. The dosage and frequency of injections will depend on the specific eye condition being treated and the individual patient’s response to the medication. Here’s a general overview of how Eylea HD is used:

• Administration: The injection is typically performed in a clinical setting, such as a doctor’s office or an eye clinic.
• Preparation: The eye is typically numbed with a local anesthetic before the injection to minimize discomfort. The eye and surrounding area are then cleaned and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection.
• Injection: Using a small needle, the healthcare provider carefully injects the appropriate dose of Eylea HD into the eye’s vitreous cavity, which is the gel-like substance in the center of the eye.
• Post-Injection Care: After the injection, the eye may be briefly monitored for any immediate adverse reactions. Patients are typically advised to avoid rubbing or touching the injected eye and to refrain from strenuous activities for a short period following the injection.
• Follow-Up Visits: Patients will typically need to return for regular follow-up appointments to monitor their condition and determine if additional injections are necessary. The frequency of injections and follow-up visits will be determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual patient’s response to treatment.

It’s essential for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and attend all scheduled appointments to ensure the best possible outcomes from Eylea HD treatment.

Other uses for this medicine

Eylea HD (aflibercept) is primarily used to treat eye conditions such as wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), and macular edema following retinal vein occlusion (RVO). However, it’s essential to note that the use of Eylea HD for other conditions or off-label purposes should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions to follow when using Eylea HD, here are some key points:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any eye conditions, allergies, previous eye surgeries, and other medical conditions you may have.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Eylea HD with your healthcare provider. The effects of Eylea HD on pregnant women and infants are not well studied, so caution is advised.
• Infection Risk: There is a risk of eye infection associated with any intraocular injection, including Eylea HD. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any signs of eye infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, after receiving the injection.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of your eye condition and overall health is essential during Eylea HD treatment. Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider and follow their recommendations for follow-up care.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Eylea HD may cause temporary changes in vision, such as blurred vision or sensitivity to light. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has returned to normal.
• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a known allergy to aflibercept or any other ingredients in Eylea HD. Allergic reactions to Eylea HD are rare but can occur.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements, that you are taking. Some medications may interact with Eylea HD, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly. Never change your Eylea HD dosage or stop treatment without consulting your healthcare provider first.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with Eylea HD. However, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nutrients beneficial for eye health, such as vitamins A, C, and E, may support overall eye health and complement your treatment.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Eylea HD, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment for the missed injection. It’s essential to maintain the recommended treatment schedule to ensure optimal management of your eye condition. Do not attempt to administer the missed dose yourself or adjust your treatment regimen without consulting your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eylea HD (aflibercept) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Eylea HD may include:

• Eye Irritation: This may include redness, itching, or discomfort in the eye where the injection was administered.
• Floaters: Some people may experience an increase in floaters or spots in their vision temporarily after receiving an injection.
• Eye Pain: Mild to moderate eye pain or discomfort is reported by some individuals after the injection.
• Blurred Vision: Vision may be temporarily blurred after receiving an injection of Eylea HD.
• Increased Eye Pressure: In some cases, Eylea HD injections may lead to an increase in intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye).
• Conjunctival Hemorrhage: This refers to minor bleeding or redness in the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue covering the white part of the eye.
• Eye Inflammation: Inflammation of the eye, known as uveitis, may occur in some individuals.
• Sensitivity to Light: Some people may experience increased sensitivity to light after receiving an injection.
• Eye Infection: While rare, there is a risk of eye infection associated with any intraocular injection, including Eylea HD.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Eylea HD are rare but can occur. Symptoms may include swelling, itching, rash, or difficulty breathing.

It’s important to note that the above list includes some common side effects, but it’s not exhaustive. Some individuals may experience other side effects not listed here. Additionally, serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience any concerning symptoms after receiving an injection of Eylea HD, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Your healthcare provider can provide more information about the potential side effects of Eylea HD and help you weigh the risks and benefits of treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication or treatment plan, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Eylea HD should be stored in its original packaging in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Keep the medication away from light.
• Handling: Always handle Eylea HD with clean hands and avoid touching the needle or injection site to prevent contamination.
• Disposal: Used needles and syringes should be disposed of properly in a puncture-resistant container. Follow your local regulations or guidelines for the disposal of medical waste. Do not reuse needles or syringes.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of an emergency or overdose involving Eylea HD, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. Overdose with Eylea HD is unlikely due to its method of administration (injection into the eye) and the relatively small amount of medication used in each dose. However, it’s essential to report any unusual symptoms or reactions to your healthcare provider promptly.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your eye condition and response to treatment.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements, that you are taking. Some medications may interact with Eylea HD.
• Injection Site Reactions: It’s common to experience minor discomfort, redness, or irritation at the injection site. These symptoms usually resolve on their own within a few days. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent or severe injection site reactions.
• Travel Precautions: If you need to travel with Eylea HD, follow the storage guidelines and keep the medication refrigerated until use. Avoid exposing the medication to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight during travel.
• Patient Assistance Programs: If you have concerns about the cost of Eylea HD, inquire about patient assistance programs or financial assistance options provided by the manufacturer or healthcare organizations.
• Educational Materials: Your healthcare provider may provide you with educational materials or resources about Eylea HD and your eye condition. Take the time to review these materials and ask any questions you may have.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance closely regarding the use of Eylea HD and your overall treatment plan. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.