Alternative CRVO treatment 96% cheaper and just as effective

{{quote-A:R-W:450-I:2-Q:“This head-to-head comparison of two widely used drugs for treatment of macular oeda due to CRVO shows that both are effective in improving vision,”-WHO:Ingrid Scott , Physician, Professor of Ophthalmology and Public Health Sciences}}The US’ National Eye Institute (NEI) compared the effectiveness of antibody drug Avastin (bevacizumab) with the currently preferred Eylea (aflibercept) in treating CRVO. After six monthly injections, the researchers found treatment with either drug improved visual acuity on average from 20/100 to 20/40.The results were especially important considering Avastin – at US$60 (AU$78.94) per dose – is 96% cheaper than the US$1,850 (AU$2,434) per injection Eylea.However, while the study shows promise for patients with CRVO, Avastin has not yet been approved for use as a drug to treat eye diseases.“This head-to-head comparison of two widely used drugs for treatment of macular oeda due to CRVO shows that both are effective in improving vision,” study lead Professor Ingrid Scott said.“The bottom line is that in patients with CRVO-associated macular oeda, Avastin was as effective as Eylea.”{{image3-a:l-w:400}}The study involved 362 patients from 66 different clinical sites throughout the US. The subjects were then randomly selected to receive injections of Eylea in 2 mg doses or Avastin in 1.25 mg doses every 28-day cycle for a period of six months.The patients were assessed after the trial period for retinal thickness, visual acuity and side effects from using the drugs.Ophthalmologists have been using Avastin off-label for some time as an alternative in treating macular degeneration as a cheaper option for medication, however the cumulative long-term effects of the medication are still being investigated.