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Brand Names: Macugen

Generic Name: pegaptanib (ophthalmic injection) (Pronunciation: peg AP ta nib)

• What is pegaptanib (Macugen)?
• What are the possible side effects of pegaptanib (Macugen)?
• What is the most important information I should know about pegaptanib (Macugen)?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving pegaptanib (Macugen)?
• How is pegaptanib used (Macugen)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Macugen)?
• What happens if I overdose (Macugen)?
• What should I avoid while receiving pegaptanib (Macugen)?
• What other drugs will affect pegaptanib (Macugen)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is pegaptanib (Macugen)?

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 are the possible side effects of pegaptanib (Macugen)?

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.

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

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.