Macugen (Pegaptanib Sodium) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Macugen

Macular Degeneration »

Macular degeneration facts

The macula is in the center of the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. The macula is responsible for central vision (straight-ahead vision). Degeneration of the macula occurs most often after the age of 60 years and is termed age-related macular generation (AMD).
AMD is a painless condition.
There are two types of AMD: dry AMD and wet AMD.
Smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, a diet high in unsaturated fats and simple carbohydrates and lack of exercise all increase the risk of AMD.
Early symptoms of dry AMD include slightly blurred vision, the need for more light for reading, and difficulty recognizing faces until very close to the person. A symptom of more advanced dry AMD is the presence of a blurred spot in the center of vision. An early symptom of wet AMD is the wavy appearance of straight lines.
Dry AMD cannot be treated...

Read the Macular Degeneration article »

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Macugen

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Macugen Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Macugen

Generic Name: pegaptanib (ophthalmic injection) (Pronunciation: peg AP ta nib)

What is pegaptanib (Macugen)?

Pegaptanib decreases the level of a protein that affects the cells of the eye. This protein can cause swelling and blood vessel changes that lead to macular degeneration and blindness.

Pegaptanib treats age-related macular degeneration.

Pegaptanib may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of pegaptanib (Macugen)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

eye pain, redness, or irritation;
drainage or discharge from your eyes;
feeling that your eyes are more sensitive to light; or
trouble seeing, or other vision changes.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

cough;
diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach;
headache, dizziness;
joint pain; or
painful or burning urination.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about pegaptanib (Macugen)?

Do not use pegaptanib if you have an infection in or around your eye.

Before receiving pegaptanib, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction when receiving a pegaptanib injection.

Pegaptanib is given as an injection through a needle placed directly into your eye. Your doctor will give you this injection in a clinic setting. Only one eye at a time will be treated unless your doctor prescribes otherwise.

Pegaptanib injections are usually given every 6 weeks.

Before your injection, you will receive a numbing medicine to make you comfortable during the injection. You will also be treated with an antibiotic medicine to prevent infection.

After your injection, your doctor will need to check your eyes periodically for up to 30 minutes. You may also need to be checked again in 2 and 7 days.

You may need to protect your eyes from bright light while you are being treated with this medication.

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