COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Lucentis
GENERIC NAME(S): RANIBIZUMAB
Description: Ranibizumab is a a human antibody fragment. It works by keeping new blood vessels from forming under the retina. The formation of new blood vessels occur in patients with the condition known as the “wet” form of macular degeneration.
Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption: Low systemic absorption.
Excretion: Elimination half-life: Approx 9 days.
This medication is used to treat certain serious eye conditions (such as age-related macular degeneration, macular edema). It is used to help prevent decreased vision and blindness. Ranibizumab works by slowing the growth of abnormal new blood vessels in the eye and decreasing leakage from these blood vessels.
How to use ranibizumab intravitreal:
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start receiving ranibizumab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into the affected eye(s) by a health care professional. The affected eye is numbed before each injection. Your eye will be monitored before the injection. After the injection, you will remain in the doctor’s office for a while, and your eye will continue to be monitored.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. This medication is usually given once a month or as directed by your doctor.
When treating age-related macular degeneration, if you are not able to have monthly injections after your first few doses, getting injections once every 2 or 3 months may be an option, although not as effective as monthly injections. Consult your doctor for more details.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Pregnancy Risk: Category C (Risk cannot be ruled out)
Mild discomfort and increased tears may occur in the affected eye(s). Feeling of spinning and dizziness may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
This medication may infrequently increase your risk for developing a certain serious eye condition (endophthalmitis), especially during the first week after receiving a dose. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms in the affected eye(s): pain, redness, sensitivity to light, sudden change in vision.
This medication may sometimes increase the risk of serious (possibly fatal) blood clots. This may lead to stroke, heart attack, and other blood vessel problems. Get medical help right away if you develop: symptoms of stroke (such as weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, sudden vision changes, confusion), symptoms of a heart attack (such as chest/jaw/left arm pain).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions:
Before receiving ranibizumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a current eye infection, stroke.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This drug may make you dizzy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. However, this medication is unlikely to pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions:
Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: products applied to the eye (e.g., eyedrops).
This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
Overdose:
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If swallowing or overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Notes
Your doctor will schedule periodic eye exams to monitor your progress and check for side effects.
Missed Dose
For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule.
Storage
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic or doctor’s office and will not be stored at home.
Brands:
Available Brands
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