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First clinical experience with anecortave acetate (Retaane)
S Hayek1, M Scherrer, D Barthelmes
1Augenklinik, UniversitätsSpital, Zürich, Switzerland.
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|April 27, 2007
Summary
Anecortave acetate injections for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) showed a favorable safety profile. While visual acuity varied, many patients maintained stable vision, suggesting potential as a less invasive treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anecortave acetate is an angiostatic corticosteroid used for exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
- It is administered via posterior juxtascleral depot injection.
- Currently not approved in Switzerland, it's available under compassionate use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of anecortave acetate in treating exudative AMD.
- To assess changes in visual acuity and adverse events following treatment.
Main Methods:
- An uncontrolled case series involving 22 eyes of 19 patients.
- Standardized documentation of ETDRS visual acuity, near acuity, magnification needs, and fluorescein angiography.
- Treatment involved a posterior juxtascleral depot injection of 15 mg anecortave acetate.
Main Results:
- The mean change in visual acuity after 3 months was -2.6 ETDRS letters.
- 15/20 eyes showed stable vision or gained vision.
- 5/20 eyes experienced moderate vision loss, and 1/20 experienced significant vision loss.
- No moderate or severe adverse events were reported.
Conclusions:
- Posterior juxtascleral depot injection of 15 mg anecortave acetate is safe and well-tolerated.
- It may serve as an alternative therapeutic option for eyes with occult CNV or residual neovascular activity post-photodynamic therapy.
- Its less invasive nature and lower risk profile make it a viable consideration before anti-VEGF agents.
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