Pegaptanib (By injection)
peg-AP-ta-nib
Treats a disorder of the retina of the eye called macular degeneration.
Drug classes
Ophthalmologic Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Pegaptanib is used to treat neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a disorder of the retina of the eye that causes blurring of vision or blindness .
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription .
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
This medicine is given as an injection into your eyes.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pegaptanib, or if you have an eye infection.
Warnings
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blurred vision, stinging or redness of your eyes.
Change in how much or how often you urinate.
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or trouble breathing.
Dizziness or giddiness.
Irritation or pain in your eye.
Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Sudden loss of vision.
Sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech and hearing.
Swelling, redness, severe pain or itching of your eyes or eyelids.
Watering of your eyes.
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Mild diarrhea.
Sensitivity to light.
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Macugen
There may be other brand names for this medicine.