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What is the mechanism of action for Vabysmo?

Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD. Last updated on July 26, 2024.

Official answer

by drugclasses.com

Vabysmo (faricimab) works by blocking two pathways that cause abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye. It attaches to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), which stops them from working normally.

VEGF is a protein that plays a role in blood vessel growth and leakage. Ang-2 is also involved in blood vessel growth. By stopping these proteins from working, Vabysmo reduces abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the eye, which lessens swelling of the macula (the part of your retina responsible for central vision).

What is Vabysmo used for?

Vabysmo is FDA approved to treat patients with:

  • Neovascular (Wet) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD)
  • Diabetic macular edema (DME)
  • Macular edema following retinal vein occlusion

How is Vabysmo given?

Vabysmo is an eye injection. It is injected into your eye every 4 weeks at first, and then the dosage will depend on what condition you are treating. You might experience temporary vision problems after your eye injection, so it is recommended to not drive until your vision recovers.

This is not all the information you need to know about Vabysmo (faricimab) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

Akwii, R. G., et. al. 2019. Role of Angiopoietin-2 in Vascular Physiology and Pathophysiology. In: Cells. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/cells8050471

Vabysmo (faricimab-svoa) prescribing information. Updated 07/2024. Genentech. [Accessed July 26, 2024]. Available at: https://www.gene.com/download/pdf/vabysmo_prescribing.pdf

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