Faricimab, marketed under the brand name Vabysmo, is a bispecific monoclonal antibody used to treat serious eye conditions. Here are some key points about faricimab:
Mechanism of Action: Faricimab targets and inhibits two proteins, VEGF-A and Ang-2, which are involved in the formation of abnormal blood vessels and fluid leakage in the eye12.
Indications: It is approved for the treatment of:
Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): A condition where abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leading to vision loss12.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Swelling in the retina due to leaking blood vessels in diabetic patients12.
Macular Edema following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO): Swelling in the retina caused by a blockage in the retinal veins12.
Administration: Faricimab is administered as an intravitreal injection (directly into the eye). The initial dosing is every four weeks for the first four doses, followed by less frequent dosing based on the patient’s response and condition12.
Efficacy: It has been shown to improve and maintain vision in patients with these conditions by reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage12.
Side Effects: Common side effects include cataracts and bleeding in the white part of the eye. Serious side effects can include eye infections, severe eye pain, and changes in vision12.
Faricimab represents a significant advancement in ophthalmology by offering a dual-targeted approach to treating these debilitating eye conditions.