Ranibizumab

Dosage Forms Available

• Ranibizumab is available in the form of injection. It is administered through the intravitreal route, meaning the medicine is injected directly into the eye.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adult use.

Contraindications

• Ranibizumab is contraindicated in patients with active eye infections or periocular infections.

• It should not be used in eyes with active intraocular inflammation.

• It is also contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to Ranibizumab or any of its components.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine may interact with other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents (such as bevacizumab and aflibercept).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose with Ranibizumab, particularly due to over-injection, can lead to increased intraocular pressure, inflammation, or infection. In case of suspected overdose, monitor the patient for signs or symptoms of adverse reactions and manage them symptomatically.

• If a dose is missed, the patient should consult their doctor to discuss when to administer the next dose without doubling it.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For mild eye irritation or redness, resting the eyes can help relieve discomfort.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Ranibizumab may cause vision changes. You are advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects your vision.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of thromboembolic events should exercise caution when using Ranibizumab due to the potential risk of arterial thromboembolic events associated with intravitreal use of VEGF inhibitors.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and antioxidants which are known to support eye health. Foods like fish, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables are advisable.

• Regular eye examinations are recommended to monitor the condition being treated with Ranibizumab.

• Smoking cessation is crucial as smoking can exacerbate conditions like macular degeneration.

• Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication adherence can help improve outcomes when treating diabetic macular oedema or diabetic retinopathy with Ranibizumab.