Aflibercept is an antineovascularisation agent, meaning that it inhibits the formation of new blood vessels which serve the purpose to supply nutrients to the newly, excessively generated cells. Therefore, it can be used in exudative age-related macular degeneration, macular edema, colorectal cancer and targeted cancer therapy.
In Hong Kong, Aflibercept is either injected into the vitreous humour using Eylea for eye diseases or into the veins as an infusion over 1 hour with Zaltrap for cancer treatment.
Myopic choroidal neovascularisation
Adult and elderly
Intravitreal: 2 mg once. Additional doses may be given at least 1 month apart if needed.
Macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusion
Adult and elderly
Intravitreal: The initial dose is 2 mg once monthly until the maximum visual acuity is attained and no signs of disease activity. Discontinue if no improvement.
Diabetic macular oedema, Diabetic retinopathy
Adult and elderly
Intravitreal: The initial dose is 2 mg once monthly for 5 months. Then, 2 mg once bimonthly. The dose might be adjusted after 12 months.
Neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration
Adult and elderly
Intravitreal: The initial dose is 2 mg once monthly for 3 consecutive months. Then, 2 mg once bimonthly. The dose might be adjusted after 12 months.
Metastatic colorectal cancer
Adult and elderly
Intravenous: 4 mg/kg biweekly as an IV infusion over 1 hour together with Folinic acid, Fluorouracil and Irinotecan. Continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Common side effects of Aflibercept include but are not limited to, hypertension, weight loss, proteinuria, leukopenia, conjunctival haemorrhage, increased liver enzymes, fatigue and infection.
For Eylea, there are no contraindications.
For Zaltrap:
Common dosing schedule:
Aflibercept is prescribed in institutions by physicians.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Aflibercept may interact with:
For Zaltrap:
Aflibercept may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Aflibercept is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Aflibercept in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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