Anti-VEGF therapy: comparison of current and future agents

Abstract

With the identification of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the confirmation of its pathophysiologic link to retinal and choroidal angiogenesis, numerous agents have been designed to inhibit its activity. It is noteworthy that anatomic and visual benefits have been associated with the use of anti-VEGF agents such as pegaptanib (Macugen) and to a greater extent, ranibizumab (Lucentis) and bevacizumab (Avastin), particularly in the management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Clinical trials and case series have confirmed the utility of these agents. However, shortcomings of the current drugs such as short half-life, intraocular dosing, limited effectiveness in some patients, and potential systemic side effects continue to drive the development of new agents. In this article, we review current anti-VEGF therapies and discuss future developments.