Critical evaluation of the off-label indication and of the risks associated to the use of multi-dose vials on the treatment of age-related macular degeneration

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an ocular inflammatory diseases treated mainly by means of a bevacizumab (Avastin®) or ranibizumab (Lucentis®) intravitreal injection. Among these drugs, only ranibizumab has a specific therapeutic indication for AMD. Considering that, the off-label use on ophthalmic therapy seems to become a rule when it should be an exception. Furthermore, bevacizumab presentation consists of multi-dose vials although it does not contain preservatives in its formula. The current literature review aimed at assessing the risks for the patient related to the use of off-label indication and multi-dose vials on AMD treatment. Considering this, the proposal related to the Brazilian Public Consultation no.10, dated September 12, 2012, which proposes the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for AMD treatment, was evaluated. This systematic review allowed to conclude that the bevacizumab off-label indication results in increased risks for the patient when compared to the product with specific therapeutic indication for AMD treatment (ranibizumab), especially referring to the significant raise in the adverse events. The risks for the patient related to the multi-dose vial use, referring to the microbiological stability and dose precision, were also made clear.