Available as Lucentis in the market, Ranibizumab is a monoclonal antibody fragment. The parent mouse antibody from which it has been created is the same as that of Bevacizumab. Its anti-angiogenic activities are used for treating severe eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration, macular edema and diabetic retinopathy. Not only that, but it is also prescribed to patients to prevent blindness or decreased vision.
How is it given? Usage & Dosage
The medication is given as an injection in the affected eye by experienced healthcare professional. Before giving it, the eye will be numbed by an agent so that the patient does not feel the pain. After giving it, they have to stay back at the hospital for a few hours so that the doctor can monitor the condition.
In most cases, a single injection is given every month. However, there are exceptional circumstances where the injection may be administered once every 2 or 3 months. The treatment may be paused, or the dosages may be modified if there are unbearable toxicities. The typical doses are 0.5mg and 0.3mg.
Precautionary Measures
- The eyes must be cleaned aseptically before giving the injection with betadine.
- For each eye, the doctor must use a new vial.
- Medical tests must be conducted before starting therapy so that it is determined whether the patient is allergic to any ingredients of the drug.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages because the medicine makes dizzy.
- For the same reason, avoid driving or any other hefty activities.
- Inform your doctor about all the prescription and non-prescription drugs that you are taking because it may interact with Ranibizumab Lucentis and develop toxicities.
- Consult with your doctor if you are planning to get pregnant while taking this medicine because there may be a chance of the fetus getting harmed.
- Similarly, it is not known whether the medication can be passed through breast milk. As a precautionary measure, it is better to avoid breastfeeding under these conditions.
- Patients must be regularly monitored for Endophthalmitis, as there have been previous cases where this condition was generated in patients.
Ranibizumab Side Effects
- Dizziness and head spinning
- Pain and redness on the injection site
- Eyes can get extra sensitive to light
- Sudden changes in vision
- Increased lacrimation
- Nasopharyngitis
- Nausea
- Ocular irritation
- Constipation
Most of these are quite manageable and not consistent. Besides, the patient only gets one Lucentis injection once a month or better, once in 2 months. There will be plenty of time for the body to recover from these conditions. Sometimes your doctor will also prescribe ointments to treat the eye soreness.
Intake of Ranibizumab injection may also lead to fatal adversities such as:
- Blood clots
- Conjunctival hemorrhage
- Blood vessel problems
- Chest pain
In some cases, there have been reported risks of heart attack as well. Contact your doctor immediately for medical assistance.
Conclusion
The cost of a single vial of Ranibizumab injection is $240. Prices can differ according to pharmacies. Since Lucentis price is relatively high, you can contact your insurance company to ensure coverage of treatment. Always keep the papers safely for furnishing when required.
If you want to purchase Lucentis 10mg online, make sure to trust a reliable supplier. Check if they ask for the prescription because all legit companies ask for one before confirming the order. You can also compare the prices of inj. Lucentis in various online pharmacies and then proceed to buy from the one that offers it at wholesale market rates. The success rate of Lucentis injection is relatively high, nearly 95%. Clinical trials determine that failures are rare in this case.
