Brolucizumab
About Brolucizumab
Brolucizumab is used to treat eye conditions that may affect your vision, such as neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME). AMD is a condition that leads to vision loss due to the formation of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. DME is a complication of diabetes that causes swelling in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.
Brolucizumab contains brolucizumab, which is a monoclonal antibody. It blocks VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), a protein involved in the formation of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. This helps reduce fluid leakage, prevent further vision loss, and improve vision in patients with these eye conditions.
A healthcare professional will administer Brolucizumab. This medicine may sometimes cause side effects, such as eye discomfort, redness, or increased intraocular pressure. Most of these side effects do not require medical treatment and will subside with time. However, if they persist or worsen, see a doctor.
Brolucizumab should not be received if you are allergic to it. Let your doctor know if you have ever had any eye diseases such as glaucoma, dark floating spots, retinal vascular occlusion, retinal vasculitis, or any previous eye treatments before receiving Brolucizumab. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult a doctor before taking Injection. Brolucizumab is not recommended for children, as its safety and efficacy have not been established.
Uses of Brolucizumab
Medicinal Benefits
Brolucizumab provides significant benefits for patients with wet AMD and DME because it reduces abnormal blood vessel formation and fluid leakage. This helps to prevent vision loss and improve vision. The drug is supplied directly into the eye via pre-filled injection, usually on a predetermined schedule that changes based on the patient's response. Brolucizumab blocks VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), a protein involved in the formation of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. This helps reduce fluid leakage, prevent further vision loss, and improve vision in patients with these eye conditions.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Brolucizumab
- Eye discomfort or pain
- Redness in the eye
- Increased intraocular pressure
- Conjunctival bleeding
- Infection or inflammation inside the eye
Drug Warnings
Let the doctor know if you are allergic to the Brolucizumab. Before starting treatment with Brolucizumab, inform your doctor about any other medications or herbal products you are taking. If you are pregnant or nursing, speak with your doctor. Brolucizumab is not recommended for use in conditions like ocular/periocular infections and active intraocular infections. Tell your doctor if you have a history of eye disorders such as glaucoma, dark floating spots, retinal vascular occlusion, retinal vasculitis, or any past eye treatments. Brolucizumab is not recommended for children under 18 years old.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: No significant medication interactions are currently recognized. However, inform your doctor about your previous medical history, including herbal and vitamin supplements.
Drug-Food Interactions: No known significant interactions.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have ever had any eye diseases such as glaucoma, dark floating spots, retinal vascular occlusion, or retinal vasculitis before receiving medication.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is unknown if alcohol interacts with Brolucizumab. Please consult a doctor if you have any concerns.
Pregnancy
consult your doctorIf you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, inform the doctor before receiving Brolucizumab. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorLimited data exist on the use of Brolucizumab during breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider to assess the risks and benefits.
Driving
unsafeBrolucizumab may affect vision temporarily. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience visual disturbances after the injection.
Liver
cautionDose adjustment may be needed in case of moderate to severe liver impairment patients. Hence, inform your doctor if you have kidney disease before receiving Brolucizumab. Your doctor will prescribe Brolucizumab only if the benefits overweigh risks.
Kidney
cautionDose adjustment may be needed in case of moderate to severe kidney impairment patients. Hence, inform your doctor if you have kidney disease before receiving Brolucizumab. Your doctor will prescribe Brolucizumab only if the benefits overweigh risks.
Children
unsafeBrolucizumab is not recommended for children below 18 years, as its safety and efficacy have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Consume a balanced diet high in leafy greens, seafood, nuts, and citrus fruits.
- Stay hydrated for better general and eye health.
- Control your blood sugar and blood pressure to avoid worsening eye issues.
- To decrease retinal damage, avoid smoking and consuming alcohol.
- Regular exercise improves circulation and overall well-being.
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Schedule regular eye exams to monitor your condition.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD): Wet AMD is an eye condition where abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leaking fluid or blood and causing vision loss. It progresses quickly and mainly affects central vision. Early treatment can help slow its progression.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): DME is an eye condition caused by fluid buildup in the macula due to damaged retinal blood vessels from diabetes. This swelling leads to blurred or distorted vision and, if untreated, can cause vision loss. Treatment includes blood sugar control, anti-VEGF injections, and laser therapy.
FAQs
Brolucizumab is used to treat wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME).
Brolucizumab works by targeting and blocking VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor). VEGF promotes the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye, which can lead to fluid leakage and vision impairment. By inhibiting VEGF, Brolucizumab reduces fluid buildup and maintains retinal health.
Common side effects include eye discomfort, redness, and increased intraocular pressure. If the symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using Brolucizumab, as its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established.