Products
Brolucizumab was approved as a solution for injection in the United States in 2019 and in many countries in 2020 (Beovu).
Structure and properties
Brolucizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody fragment with a single Fv chain (single-chain antibody fragment, scFv). The molecular mass is in the range of 26 kDa. It is significantly lower compared to other VEGF inhibitors. With this approach, a high drug concentration in the eye can be achieved. The recombinant drug is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Brolucizumab (ATC S01LA06) is a VEGF inhibitor. The antibody fragment binds to the three major isoforms of VEGF-A, preventing interaction with the receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, thereby reducing endothelial cell proliferation, neovascularization, and vascular permeability.
Indications
For the treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered intravitreally, that is, into the vitreous humor of the eye. It is injected once a month for the first three months and then only every 2 to 3 months thereafter.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Existing or suspected ocular or periocular infection.
- Existing intraocular inflammation.
Refer to the drug label for complete precautions.
Interactions
No information on drug-drug interactions is available.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include blurred vision, a cataract, hemorrhage in the conjunctiva, eye pain, and mouche volantes.
