What is pegaptanib ophthalmic?
Pegaptanib is made from a human antibody fragment. It works by keeping new blood vessels from forming under the retina (a sensory membrane that lines the inside of the eye). In people with a certain type of eye disease, new blood vessels grow under the retina where they leak blood and fluid. This is known as the "wet form" of macular degeneration.
Pegaptanib ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat wet age-related macular degeneration.
Pegaptanib ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about pegaptanib ophthalmic?
You should not receive pegaptanib if you are allergic to it, or if you have cataracts or glaucoma, or any type of bacterial, fungal, or viral infection in or around your eyes.
Call your doctor at once if you have eye pain or redness, swelling or puffiness around your eyes, or sudden vision problems at any time during treatment.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pegaptanib ophthalmic?
You should not receive pegaptanib if you are allergic to it, or if you have any type of bacterial, fungal, or viral infection in or around your eyes.
FDA pregnancy category B. Pegaptanib is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether pegaptanib passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.