Avastin (Bevacizumab)

Avastin is an antibody that binds to all forms of the natural human protein called Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). This VEGF stimulates the growth of and leakage from blood vessels in the eye, like the ones we see in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy, Vascular occlusions, Age-related macular Degeneration and Neovascular glaucoma. Avastin is the first commercially available angiogenesis inhibitor, that prevents the formation of abnormal blood vessels, therefore helping in the treatment of these conditions. Although currently not approved by FDA for use in the eye, numerous studies have demonstrated that it is a safe and effective treatment for specific eye disorders.

Side effects: minimal side-effects have been reported with the use of intravitreal Avastin. Complications that relate to all intravitreal injections include: Endophthalmitis (infection in the eye), inflammation, retinal detachment, cataract and glaucoma. However, we do not recommend you have an Avastin injection if you have had a heart attack or a stroke in the last 12 months.