Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections are medications that are used to treat a range of eye conditions that involve abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye. VEGF is a protein that plays a role in the development of blood vessels, and high levels of VEGF can lead to the growth of new blood vessels in the eye, a condition known as angiogenesis. This can occur in conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.
Anti-VEGF injections work by blocking the effects of VEGF, which can help to slow or stop the growth of new blood vessels in the eye. These injections are typically administered by an ophthalmologist or other eye care professional and are given directly into the eye. They may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as laser therapy or surgery.