antiVEGFläkemedlen

Anti-VEGF medications are a class of drugs used to treat various medical conditions, primarily those affecting the eyes and certain types of cancer. These medications work by targeting and inhibiting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). VEGF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the formation of new blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis.

In the context of eye diseases, excessive VEGF can lead to abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. These fragile vessels can leak fluid and blood, causing vision loss. Conditions like wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion are treated with anti-VEGF medications. By blocking VEGF, these drugs help to reduce the leakage and growth of abnormal blood vessels, thereby preserving or improving vision. Administration is typically done through intravitreal injections, directly into the eye.

In oncology, tumors often rely on new blood vessel formation to grow and spread. Anti-VEGF therapies are used in some cancer treatments to starve tumors by inhibiting their blood supply. This can slow tumor growth and metastasis. Examples of cancers where anti-VEGF drugs might be used include colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and certain brain tumors, often in combination with chemotherapy. Side effects can vary depending on the specific drug and the condition being treated, and may include ocular side effects like inflammation or increased intraocular pressure, and systemic side effects in cancer patients such as hypertension or bleeding risks.