Pegaptanib (peg-AP-ta-nib)

Treats a disorder of the retina of the eye called macular degeneration.

Brand Name(s):

Macugen

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• This medicine is given as an injection into your eyes.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Blurred vision, stinging or redness of your eyes.
• Change in how much or how often you urinate.
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or trouble breathing.
• Dizziness or giddiness.
• Irritation or pain in your eye.
• Pain in joints or muscles.
• Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Sudden loss of vision.
• Sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech and hearing.
• Swelling, redness, severe pain or itching of your eyes or eyelids.
• Watering of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Loss of appetite.
• Mild diarrhea.
• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Sensitivity to light.