Pegaptanib intravitreal injection

What is this medication?

PEGAPTANIB (peg AP ta nib) is a drug that is injected into the eye. It is used to treat macular degeneration. This treatment results in a slowing of the disease and helps to maintain vision. It is not a cure.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Macugen

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•cataracts or glaucoma

•eye infection

•an unusual or allergic reaction to Pegaptanib, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is injected into the eye by an eye doctor who specializes in this treatment. The eye doctor will numb your eye and give you antibiotic eye drops. The injection is usually given every 6 weeks.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Your eye doctor will monitor the effects of this medicine closely. You may need to return to the office between 2 and 7 days after the treatment for a check on your condition and your response to the treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

•changes in vision

•eye pain

•sensitivity of the eyes to light

•severe headache

•swelling or redness of the eye or eyelid

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•temporary blurred vision or eye irritation

•dizziness

•headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.