Lucentis (Ranibizumab): Understanding Treatment for Wet Macular Degeneration

Lucentis, a brand name for ranibizumab, is an injected medication given to patients with wet macular degeneration. This eye condition generally affects adults over the age of 50.

• A human eye.

Function

• In patients with wet macular degeneration, new blood vessels form in the eye and leak, damaging the retina and causing vision loss. Lucentis prevents the formation of these blood vessels.

Dosage

• A medical professional will inject Lucentis into the patient's eye once a month. After four injections, your doctor may change the injection schedule to once every three months.

Side Effects

• According to Drugs.com, patients on Lucentis may experience side effects such as itchy eyes, blurred vision, runny nose and muscle aches.

Allergic Reaction

• Symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction to Lucentis include vision changes, eye pain, swelling around the eye, sensitivity to light and sudden headache.

Pregnancy

• The Food and Drug Administration classifies Lucentis as pregnancy category C, indicating that it could cause harm to an unborn fetus.