What is Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

Pegaptanib decreases the level of a protein that affects the cells of the eye. This protein can cause swelling and blood vessel changes that lead to macular degeneration and blindness.
Pegaptanib treats age-related macular degeneration.
Pegaptanib may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

Do not use pegaptanib if you have an infection in or around your eye.
Before receiving pegaptanib, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction when receiving a pegaptanib injection.
Pegaptanib is given as an injection through a needle placed directly into your eye. Your doctor will give you this injection in a clinic setting. Only one eye at a time will be treated unless your doctor prescribes otherwise.
Pegaptanib injections are usually given every 6 weeks.
Before your injection, you will receive a numbing medicine to make you comfortable during the injection. You will also be treated with an antibiotic medicine to prevent infection.
After your injection, your doctor will need to check your eyes periodically for up to 30 minutes. You may also need to be checked again in 2 and 7 days.
You may need to protect your eyes from bright light while you are being treated with this medication.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

Do not use pegaptanib if you have an infection in or around your eye.
Before receiving pegaptanib, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction when receiving a pegaptanib injection.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether pegaptanib passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Macugen Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• eye pain, redness, or irritation
• drainage or discharge from your eyes
• feeling that your eyes are more sensitive to light; or
• trouble seeing, or other vision changes

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• cough
• diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach
• headache, dizziness
• joint pain; or
• painful or burning urination

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Macugen Interactions

What other drugs affect Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

There may be other drugs that can affect pegaptanib. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while receiving pegaptanib unless your doctor has told you otherwise.
You may need to protect your eyes from bright light while you are being treated with this medication.

Macugen Dosage

How should I take Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

Pegaptanib is given as an injection through a needle placed directly into your eye. Your doctor will give you this injection in a clinic setting. Only one eye at a time will be treated unless your doctor prescribes otherwise.
Pegaptanib injections are usually given every 6 weeks.
Before your injection, you will receive a numbing medicine to make you comfortable during the injection. You will also be treated with an antibiotic medicine to prevent infection.
After your injection, your doctor will need to check your eyes periodically for up to 30 minutes. You may also need to be checked again in 2 and 7 days.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your eyes will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic to prevent an eye infection, take the antibiotic for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose on Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine.
An overdose of pegaptanib is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What happens if I miss a dose of Macugen (Pegaptanib Ophthalmic)?

Call your doctor for instructions.
Edited from everydayhealth.com