How do Syfovre and Eyela injections work?
Syfovre and Eyela injections both belong to a class of drugs known as anti-VEGF medications. Anti-VEGF stands for anti-vascular endothelial growth factor, which is a protein that promotes the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. These abnormal blood vessels can leak fluid and cause damage to the macula, leading to vision loss in macular degeneration. Syfovre and Eyela injections work by inhibiting the action of VEGF, reducing the growth of abnormal blood vessels and preventing further damage to the macula.
Administration
One of the main differences between Syfovre and Eyela injections is the frequency of administration. Syfovre injections are typically administered monthly. On the other hand, Eyela injections are given less frequently, usually every 2 months. The specific dosing schedule may vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their macular degeneration. Another difference is the injection technique. Syfovre injections are given as intravitreal injections, which means the medication is injected directly into the vitreous gel in the back of the eye. Eyela injections, on the other hand, are given as subconjunctival injections, which means the medication is injected into the tissue below the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the front of the eye.
Effectiveness
Both Syfovre and Eyela injections have been shown to be effective in slowing down the progression of macular degeneration and preventing further vision loss. Clinical studies have demonstrated that these injections can improve visual acuity and reduce the thickness of the macula, which is an indicator of disease activity. However, some studies have suggested that Syfovre injections may be more effective in certain subgroups of patients, particularly those with a specific genetic variant called CFH.
Side Effects
Like any medication, Syfovre and Eyela injections can cause side effects. The most common side effects reported with both injections include eye redness, increased intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye), and eye pain. Other less common side effects may include floaters, eye inflammation, and infection. It is important for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits of these injections with their ophthalmologist before starting treatment.