Izervay is a new medication for geographic atrophy (GA) and advanced dry age-related macular degeneration. It slows down vision loss, so you’ll want to know its side effects before starting treatment. If you are searching for izervay injection, understanding both its benefits and risks is essential before beginning therapy.
What Is Izervay?
Izervay (avacincaptad pegol) is an FDA-approved injection into the eye. It is for geographic atrophy, a condition that causes permanent vision loss. Izervay works by targeting complement C5, helping slow the growth of GA lesions.
Your doctor will administer Izervay by direct injection into the eye once a month. The usual dose is 2 mg per injection for a maximum of 12 months.
Common Side Effects
Most people will experience izervay side effects that are mild and manageable after receiving injections.
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Most Common Side Effects
Around 13% of people will notice blood spots in the white of the eye. This is the most common side effect people see after receiving their injection. Around 9% of people in treatment will experience an increase in intraocular pressure. Blurred vision is experienced by around 8% of patients receiving Izervay.
Another three common side effects reported to the doctor by patients include eye pain and eye floaters (floating spots or lines in your vision) that may appear post-injection. Most side effects occur soon after the injection and resolve without treatment.
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Mild Side Effects
Eye redness may occur after your Izervay injection. Blepharitis can cause the eyelids around the treatment area to be sore. Some patients experienced mild swelling around their eyelashes. Temporary eye irritation is common and usually goes away quickly.
Izervay Serious Side Effects
Serious eye problems associated with Izervay are rare, but they require your immediate attention.
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Endophthalmitis (An Infection in the Eye)
Endophthalmitis is a severe infection inside your eyeball. It occurs when bacteria enter the eye during the injection process. Severe eye pain is one of the first warning signs of endophthalmitis. An excessively irritated, red eye that worsens over time suggests a serious issue.
You should never ignore any sudden change in your vision after treatment. Additionally, if you notice your eyes becoming sensitive to light, it may be a sign of an infection developing.
Please call your physician immediately if you notice these symptoms.
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Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of your eye and can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. The first sign of retinal detachment is usually a sudden increase in floaters in your eyes.
If you notice flashes of light in your peripheral vision, this may indicate that the retina is experiencing issues. If you see a veil or curtain over your sight, get help right away, as loss of vision anywhere in your visual field requires you to go to an emergency room.
You should seek immediate medical care if you experience any of these vision changes.
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Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Izervay increases your risk of developing wet AMD. In clinical studies, 7% of patients developed wet AMD. The typical early sign of wet AMD is when straight lines appear to be wavy.
Blank spots in your vision indicate the disease is developing. Dull colors that used to be vivid also indicate a change in your macula. Blurry vision in the center of your field of vision makes it difficult to see details.
Report these changes to your physician without delay.
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Increased Eye Pressure
As a result of the injection, your eye pressure may increase temporarily. This occurs when fluid is injected into the eye. As a result, we will check your eye pressure before and after each injection. If your eye pressure is elevated, the doctor may prescribe eye drops to lower it.
Who Should Not Use Izervay?
Izervay is not safe for everyone. You should not use Izervay if you have eye infections, either ocular or periocular. Active inflammation inside the eye is another reason not to begin treating. Suppose you have allergies to avacincaptad pegol or any of the ingredients in the formula. In that case, you should not use this medication. When you have your appointment to start treatment, be sure to inform your doctor of all your medical problems.
Managing Side Effects
Most side effects are manageable with proper treatment and care. Before you have your injection, your doctor will measure your eye pressure with a tonometer. At every visit, your doctor will also check your eyes for signs of infection.
After your injection, monitor your vision carefully for the next several days for any changes. If you experience anything unusual, inform your doctor immediately. At your upcoming appointments, your doctor will continue to monitor for signs of infection.
Your doctor will also watch for any signs of retinal detachment and assess the health of your optic nerve. Additionally, your eye pressure will be measured throughout your treatment.
You will also have regular appointment follow-ups since this medication is intended for long-term treatment. At these appointments, your doctor will monitor you for any development of wet AMD. Be sure to attend all appointments and check-ups, as they are essential for early detection and management of potential side effects. Do not skip an injection without first talking to your doctor.
Izervay Vs Syfovre Side Effect Comparison
Izervay and Syfovre are both medications used to treat geographic atrophy. Both medications have similar side effects to be aware of, which your eye doctor will monitor. Serious adverse events can happen for both medicines, such as endophthalmitis and retinal detachment.
However, Syfovre can also cause other types of eye inflammation, such as keratitis, uveitis, and iritis. Interested in learning more about how these treatments stack up? Check out our comprehensive Izervay vs Syfovre guide to help you make the right decision.
When To Call The Doctor?
If you experience severe, non-resolving eye pain, this warrants immediate medical attention. Sudden vision loss should never wait until your next appointment. Eye redness that is getting worse (rather than better) is concerning. Light sensitivity may indicate a serious complication. Flashes or new floaters should be evaluated the same day. A curtain over your vision suggests you need to be seen immediately.
When complications occur, early treatment is essential to prevent permanent complications.
Your Vision Matters – Let Us Help You Protect It
Izervay offers hope for slowing vision loss from geographic atrophy. There are side effects associated with Izervay, but they are usually manageable with guidance from a medical professional. Knowing a treatment’s risk can help patients make informed choices regarding their eye health. Close monitoring and prompt action on warning signs are essential for safe treatment.
Visit RVAF for expert advice, side-by-side treatment comparisons, and educational resources to help you in your journey living with geographic atrophy.