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Age-Related Macular Degeneration - Medications
SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS
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Anti-VEGF medicines can slow the vision loss that is linked to wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). These medicines block a protein that leads to the wet type of macular degeneration. This protein is called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF causes new abnormal vessels to grow in the eye. The growth of these abnormal vessels leads to macular degeneration.
Anti-VEGF medicines appear to slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels that cause vision loss in wet AMD.8 Two examples of anti-VEGF medicines used to treat AMD are bevacizumab (Avastin) and ranibizumab (Lucentis). These medicines are injected into the eye.
Anti-VEGF medicines are also known as VEGF inhibitors.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 8, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Christopher J. Rudnisky - Ophthalmology | |
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