Pegaptanib ophthalmic injection

Generic name: pegaptanib ophthalmic injection [ peg-AP-ta-nib ]
Brand name: Macugen
Dosage form: intravitreal solution (0.3 mg)
Drug class: Anti-angiogenic ophthalmic agents

What is pegaptanib ophthalmic?

Pegaptanib ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used in adults to treat wet age-related macular degeneration.

Pegaptanib ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Call your doctor at once if you have eye pain or redness, swelling around your eyes, or sudden vision problems.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use pegaptanib ophthalmic if you are allergic to it, or if you have an infection in or around your eyes.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• glaucoma; or

• cataract.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is pegaptanib ophthalmic given?

Pegaptanib ophthalmic is given as an injection into your eye. You will receive this injection in your doctor's office or other clinic setting.

For a short time after your injection, your eyes will be checked periodically to make sure the injection has not caused any side effects.

Pegaptanib is usually given once every 6 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your pegaptanib ophthalmic injection.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose is unlikely to cause serious side effects.

What should I avoid while receiving pegaptanib ophthalmic?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Pegaptanib ophthalmic side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Pegaptanib ophthalmic injection may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• eye pain or redness, swelling around your eyes;

• sudden vision problems; or

• increased sensitivity to light, or seeing "floaters" in your vision.

Common side effects of pegaptanib ophthalmic injection may include:

• vision changes;

• eye pain or discomfort;

• eye redness, irritation, sensitivity to light; or

• watery eyes, crusting or drainage.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pegaptanib ophthalmic injection dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Macular Degeneration:

0.3 mg via intravitreal injection into the affected eye once every 6 weeks.

Comments: No additional benefit has been demonstrated with dose levels above 0.3 mg.

Use: Treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

What other drugs will affect pegaptanib ophthalmic?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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