Brolucizumab, also known as RTH258, is a humanized monoclonal antibody developed by Regeneron and Roche for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It was approved for use in the United States in October 2020. Brolucizumab is a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, and it works by blocking the action of VEGF, a protein involved in the formation of new blood vessels. This prevents the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the back of the eye, which is the main cause of wet AMD. Clinical trials have shown that brolucizumab is more effective than the current standard of care, bevacizumab, in reducing disease activity, improving visual acuity, and reducing the risk of vision loss in patients with wet AMD.
Brolucizumab, sold under the brand name Beovu, is a relatively new medication approved for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in adults. Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:
What it treats:
- nAMD is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss in adults aged 50 and older.
- Brolucizumab is specifically indicated for the treatment of wet nAMD, characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth under the macula, leading to fluid leakage, swelling, and vision loss.
How it works:
- Brolucizumab belongs to a class of medications called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors. These medications work by blocking the action of VEGF, a protein that plays a key role in the growth of new blood vessels.
- By blocking VEGF, brolucizumab helps to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula, thereby reducing fluid leakage, swelling, and potentially preventing further vision loss.
How it's administered:
- Brolucizumab is administered as an intravitreal injection (injection into the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance in the eye) by a qualified healthcare professional.
- The typical starting dosage is 6mg injected every 12 weeks, with the possibility of adjusting the interval based on individual response and disease activity.
Important considerations:
- Brolucizumab is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional experienced in treating nAMD.
- It can cause various side effects, including:
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Blurred vision
- Floaters (dark spots or lines in the vision)
- Increased eye pressure
- Bleeding in the eye
- Endophthalmitis (eye infection): This is a rare but serious potential side effect of intravitreal injections, including brolucizumab. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of infection and to seek immediate medical attention if any concerns arise.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Brolucizumab is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to the potential risk of harm to the developing fetus or newborn baby.