Hello, this is Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic.
Macular degeneration is one of the leading retinal diseases that can cause vision loss in older adults.
Wet macular degeneration, in particular, can lead to rapid vision deterioration. Early detection and timely management are therefore essential.
However, many patients feel anxious when they hear that they may need an injection in the eye, while others hesitate because of the cost.
With the recent introduction of biosimilars, the financial burden has been significantly reduced, allowing more patients to continue receiving the care they need.
Today, we will discuss the causes of macular degeneration, the role of intravitreal injections, the medications commonly used, and recent changes in treatment costs.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
The eye has a structure similar to that of a camera.
The front of the eye contains a lens, while the retina at the back functions much like photographic film.
At the center of the retina is the macula, a vital area responsible for sharp, detailed central vision.
Dry macular degeneration occurs when waste deposits accumulate in the macula. Wet macular degeneration develops when abnormal new blood vessels grow beneath the retina, causing bleeding, swelling, or inflammation.
Because wet macular degeneration can progress rapidly, early detection and proactive management are important for preserving vision.
Regular eye examinations can help identify changes early and provide an opportunity to discuss appropriate care with an ophthalmologist in Goyang.
Why Are Intravitreal Injections Important?
Wet macular degeneration is commonly treated with anti-VEGF injections, which help suppress the growth and leakage of abnormal blood vessels.
Many patients worry that an injection in the eye will be extremely painful. In practice, anesthetic eye drops are applied beforehand, so discomfort is generally limited. The injection itself usually takes only one or two seconds.
After each injection, it is important to monitor the condition and continue treatment according to the schedule recommended by the ophthalmologist.
Stopping treatment on your own because symptoms have improved may allow the condition to become active again. For this reason, ongoing care should follow the treatment plan established by your ophthalmologist.
Medications Used for Macular Degeneration
Common medications used to manage wet macular degeneration include Avastin® (bevacizumab), Lucentis® (ranibizumab), and Eylea® (aflibercept).
Avastin has been widely used for many years. It remains a commonly considered option because it may provide clinical benefits while placing a relatively lower financial burden on patients.
Lucentis and Eylea are anti-VEGF medications developed later. The choice of medication may depend on the patient’s eye condition, the characteristics of the lesion, and the expected duration of the drug’s effects.
The availability of biosimilars has further expanded the range of treatment options.
No single medication is appropriate for every patient. The choice should be made after considering the severity of the condition, the state of the abnormal blood vessels, the response to previous medications, and financial circumstances.
A thorough consultation with an ophthalmologist is essential before selecting a medication.
Biosimilars Have Helped Reduce Treatment Costs
In the past, some intravitreal medications could cost more than KRW 700,000 per injection when the treatment did not meet insurance coverage criteria.
With the introduction of biosimilars, certain treatments may now be available at costs in the KRW 100,000 range.
After patents for original biologic medications expired, Korean pharmaceutical companies developed biosimilar alternatives. These products have undergone regulatory review by authorities such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to evaluate their quality, safety, and effectiveness.
The reduced financial burden has made it more feasible for patients to continue receiving treatment when medically necessary.
Consistent Management Is the First Step Toward Preserving Vision
When left untreated, wet macular degeneration may lead to rapid and significant vision loss.
When detected early and managed with appropriately scheduled intravitreal injections, however, treatment may help preserve remaining vision and slow the progression of the condition.
The introduction of biosimilars has also reduced the financial burden associated with certain injections.
If cost concerns have caused you to delay care, consider discussing your situation with an ophthalmologist and developing a management plan based on your current eye condition.
Once vision is damaged, it can be difficult to restore.
Regular eye examinations and timely management are essential for protecting long-term eye health.
If you are concerned about changes in your vision or require ongoing care, consider undergoing a comprehensive eye examination and consultation at Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic.
An individualized management plan should be determined in consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist after a thorough evaluation of your eye condition.
Thank you.
