What is pegaptanib?

Pegaptanib is a medicine used to control symptoms of macular degeneration related to wet age (AMD). It is injected directly into the eye. The drug manages the condition but does not provide a medicine. Pegaptanib is sold under the name of Macugen®. It works by focusing on two primary symptoms of AMD: blood vessel leakage and difficulty in the correct formation of new blood vessels. Pegaptanib contains nucleic acid that contains important molecules creating a life that adheres to the protein in the eye, creating a material for generating healthy new vessels. It also strengthens the existing blood vessels, which helps to prevent leakage. Before injection, the eye is numb. During the injection, the patient should only feel slight pressure. Doctors will usually observe patients for a short time to ensure that it does not cause an adverse effect on the patient's vision.

There are several slight side effects of receiving pegaptanib. Should be discussed with a doctor only if they persist or become bindsomewhat. They include dizziness, diarrhea and nausea. Some patients may also experience discomfort or release out of their eyes.

More serious side effects by pegaptanib injections should be discussed with a doctor as soon as possible. They include blurred vision, light sensitivity and deteriorating or other changes in vision. Some patients can also see floats or light flashes. Swelling, redness or pain in the eyes or lids should also be treated. Any signs of allergic reactions, including breathing or swallowing problems, swelling in the neck and hives or rash should receive emergency medical care.

Macular degeneration related to wet age is primarily influenced by the elderly. It includes retinal damage that affects macula or the center of vision in the eye. The patient with this condition will often have normal peripheral vision, but will try to see directly forward. Pegaptanib helps to restore FUretina, but only temporarily; Once the injection has disappeared, the patient will usually have the same vision problems. There is also a dry form of macular degeneration related to age, in which central vision is also affected, although this is due to the loss of photoreceptors in the eye instead of problems with blood vessels.