Lucentis

Lucentis is the brand name for ranibizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody fragment (Fab) that binds vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). By inhibiting VEGF-A, Lucentis reduces abnormal retinal blood vessel growth and vascular leakage, helping to preserve or improve vision in several retinal diseases.

Indications and dosing commonly include neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), and macular edema following retinal vein occlusion (central or branch). In some regions it is approved for choroidal neovascularization due to pathologic myopia. The drug is delivered by intravitreal injection. Dosing regimens typically involve monthly injections, with loading doses followed by as-needed (PRN) or treat-and-extend schedules depending on disease activity and regulatory guidance. Labeled doses include AMD: 0.5 mg per injection; DME and RVO-associated edema: 0.3 mg per injection.

Clinical evidence supports efficacy in improving or preserving visual acuity in AMD, and reducing vision loss in DME and RVO, with gains varying by condition and individual response. Real-world use often involves ongoing monitoring and repeated injections to maintain disease control.

Safety and adverse effects: Common local site-related events include conjunctival hemorrhage, eye pain, lid swelling, and transient increased intraocular pressure. Serious but rare risks include endophthalmitis, intraocular inflammation, retinal detachment, and systemic arterial thromboembolic events. As with other intravitreal therapies, patients should be monitored for ocular and systemic adverse effects.

Availability and context: Lucentis is marketed by Genentech/Roche in many markets. It is one of several anti-VEGF therapies used to treat retinal vascular diseases, alongside agents such as bevacizumab and aflibercept.