SHORT-TERM SAFETY PROFILE OF INTRAVITREAL ZIV-AFLIBERCEPT

Effectiveness of the Use of Three-Dose Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept in the Management of Diabetic Macular Edema in a Real-Life Setting

Purpose

It has been reported that intravitreal Ziv-aflibercept is a safe and effective drug for the treatment of diabetes macular edema (DME). The objective of this study was to evaluate in a real-life setting, the efficacy of intravitreal Ziv-aflibercept in the treatment of DME after the administration of three consecutive monthly doses.

Methods

A single arm, prospective cohort study. We included patients with DME who received three doses of intravitreal Ziv-aflibercept. Data such as best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and tomographic biomarkers before treatment and a month after the third dose were collected. DME was staged using the Panozzo classification.

Results

Thirty-eight patients participated for a total of 53 eyes. The mean age was 59 ± 8.1 years. We observed significant changes after the third dose in the parameters studied (BCVA in LogMAR pre-treatment (0.6 ± 0.33) and post-treatment (0.4 ± 0.29) [p<0.001], macular thickness pre-treatment (501 ± 167 µm) and post-treatment (324 ± 114 µm) [p<0.001], macular volume pre-treatment 10.8 (7.5-17.8) mm³ and post-treatment 9.3 (0-13.6) mm³ [p<0.005]). And 73.6% of the patients presented an advanced severe stage during their pre-treatment evaluation and after post-treatment, 64.2% of the patients no longer presented edema. No systemic or ocular adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

The use of three consecutive monthly doses of intravitreal Ziv-aflibercept in a real-life setting is effective and safe in the management of diabetic macular edema.

Pharmacological treatment strategies of pterygium: Drugs, biologics, and novel natural products

Pterygium is a fibrovascular tissue growth invading the cornea. Adjunctive treatment post-surgery includes conventional immunosuppressants as well as antiviral drugs. The use of large- and small-molecule antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents remains an integral part of pterygium treatment as well as other neovascular conditions of the eye. Naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds have favorable characteristics for treating neovascular and inflammatory eye conditions, including good efficacy, stability, cost-effectiveness, and the versatility of their chemical synthesis. In this review, we discuss pharmacological treatments of pterygium. Natural products, such curcumin, ellagic acid, and chalcones, are reviewed, with emphasis on their potential as future pterygium treatments.

Progress and Challenges of Anti-VEGF Agents and Their Sustained-Release Strategies for Retinal Angiogenesis

Currently, the treatment for ocular neovascular diseases, including diabetic macular edema (DME) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), mainly involves repeated intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs. Although it can preserve vision, repeated injections are an invasive treatment modality, leading to serious complications and reducing patient adherence to treatment. To reduce the frequency of administration, prolong the time of drug action, and avoid repeated intravitreal injections, the combination of sustained-release materials with anti-VEGF drug therapy has become an emphasis in ophthalmology. In this review, we highlight the current state of anti-VEGF technology, its challenges, and the sustained-release strategies under investigation or being used in clinical practice. Both continuous release and considerable therapeutic effects can be achieved by encapsulating anti-VEGF drugs in sustained-release materials to minimize the number of intravitreal injections. At present, two sustained-release materials are being tested in clinical research, and although basic research shows the strong therapeutic application prospects of extended-release drugs, its challenges mainly involve the discrepancy between the release rates in vitro and the efficiency of the drugs in vivo. Briefly, sustained release of anti-VEGF agents is an advantageous strategy for treating retinal angiogenesis.

Switching to ziv-aflibercept in resistant diabetic macular edema non responsive to ranibizumab injection

Background

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a leading cause of visual loss in diabetic patients and is managed using multiple anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents such as bevacizumab, ranibizumab and aflibercept. The present study evaluates effectiveness of intravitreal injection of ziv-aflibercept in resistant diabetic macular edema.

Methods

This is a prospective interventional study that was carried out on 59 eyes of 40 diabetic patients with diabetic macular edema resistant to three prior consecutive ranibizumab injections. On all patients, thorough ophthalmic evaluation including optical coherence tomography was performed. In patients with persistent intraretinal or subretinal fluid, ziv- aflibercept 1.25 mg (0.05 ml) was administered by intravitreal injection monthly during the 6 month study period from June to December 2019.

Results

The central macular thickness (CMT) decreased significantly from 395.08 ± 129.9 um at baseline to 282.39 ± 95.278, 245.36 ± 79.861 and 201.17 ± 54.042 after 1, 3 and 6 months of treatment respectively (p < 0.001). Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in log MAR units was significantly improved from 0.95 ± 0.21 to 0.51 ± 0.23 after 6 months (p = 0.001). After treatment, negative correlations were detected between age, number of injections, duration of DM and level of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and variation of both CMT and BCVA. The only significant predictor for low final CMT after 6 months of injection was the CMT after 3 months of injection (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Ziv-aflibercept is a highly effective and safe drug in cases of DME resistant to previous ranibizumab injections especially in low-income countries.

Trial registration

This study was retrospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov (ID: NCT04290195) on 28-2-2020.

The sterility, stability and efficacy of repackaged ziv-aflibercept for intravitreal administration

To evaluate the sterility, stability, and efficacy of repackaged ziv-aflibercept in 1-mL plastic tuberculin syringes for intravitreal injection after storage for up to 90 days at controlled (4 °C) and ambient (25.8 °C) temperature. A total of 168 tuberculin-type 1-mL syringes were prepared containing ziv-aflibercept (100 mg/4 mL). Samples were stored at 4 °C and 25.8 °C for 0, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 60, and 90 days. At each time point, four samples were evaluated for the stability and binding affinity of anti-VEGF to VEGF (efficacy) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). All samples were analyzed for microbial growth. No microbial growth was obtained from any of the ziv-aflibercept samples during each time point, indicating that the repackaged ziv-aflibercept stored at 4 °C and 25.8 °C remained sterile. ELISA analysis revealed no significant decrease in concentration, and binding affinity was observed, indicating that the stability and efficacy were preserved. However, the concentration of ziv-aflibercept decreased less than the minimum expected concentration of 8 ng/mL after 60 days at 4 °C and after 30 days at 25.8 °C. The repackaged anti-VEGF drug ziv-aflibercept does not lose stability or efficacy and remains uncontaminated if prepared under sterile conditions and stored at 4 °C for up to 60 days or stored at 25.8 °C for up to 30 days.

Safety review of anti-VEGF therapy in patients with myopic choroidal neovascularization

INTRODUCTION

Anti-angiogenesis therapy with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents is now the standard-of-care treatment for myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

AREAS COVERED

We provide a critical review of the safety of all the anti-VEGF agents currently used for treating myopic CNV including ranibizumab, aflibercept, conbercept, bevacizumab, and ziv-aflibercept.

EXPERT OPINION

Anti-VEGF therapy for myopic CNV with the currently available anti-VEGF drugs generally have favorable safety outcomes in the short-term. Nonetheless, ocular adverse events following anti-VEGF therapy for myopic CNV may develop and these include worsening or new development of myopic traction maculopathy, increased risk of retinal detachment, and progression of chorioretinal atrophy. Clinicians should be aware of these potential complications and evaluate them before and after anti-VEGF therapy.

Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept in Patients With Diabetic Macular Edema Refractory to Intravitreal Bevacizumab

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) resistant to intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective study was conducted in patients with persistent DME. Patients were switched to IVZ no longer than 6 weeks after the last three consecutive monthly IVB treatments and monitored over a course of 12 weeks. Changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and macular volume on optical coherence tomography were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 59 eyes (38 patients) were included. Mean BCVA improved from 0.84 to 0.71 logMAR (P = .001) after first IVZ treatment and remained significant. In a subgroup analysis, this significance was observed only in the group with baseline visual acuity of less than 20/50. Mean CMT decreased from 479 μm to 364 μm (P = .004) after the first IVZ injections and remained significant.

CONCLUSION

IVZ may be best reserved for patients with persistent DME after initial failure with bevacizumab, with less likelihood for anatomic or functional improvement in those with mild persistent DME. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2020;51:145-151.].

Ziv-aflibercept for Better Regulating Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ZEBRA): A Prospective, Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to determine if ziv-aflibercept is a safe and effective maintenance drug for nAMD.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This is a randomized, prospective, single-blinded trial. Inclusion criteria were active nAMD, prior anti-VEGF treatment, and BCVA ≤20/200. The treatment group received ziv-aflibercept. The control group continued their existing anti-VEGF regimen. The main outcome measures were BCVA, CFT, and safety.

RESULTS

Mean baseline BCVA was 1.58 ± 0.44 logMAR and 1.71 ± 0.39 logMAR in the control (n = 27) and treatment (n = 29) groups, respectively. After 24 months, the mean change in BCVA was 0.11 in the control group (equivalent to a loss of 5 ETDRS letters) and 0.01 logMAR in the treatment group (p = .48). Baseline CFT was 257 ± 33 μm and 247 ± 30 μm in the control and treatment groups, respectively, and after 24 months mean change in CFT was 26 μm and -5 μm (p = .24). There were no ocular or systemic adverse events during the study.

CONCLUSION

Ziv-aflibercept is a safe and effective as a maintenance drug for patients with nAMD. It may represent a cost-effective alternative to aflibercept and second-line therapy for eye resistant bevacizumab or ranibizumab.

Ziv-aflibercept and bevacizumab for exudative age-related macular degeneration: A retrospective comparison of clinical outcomes and cost at 1 year

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) monotherapy to intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) monotherapy in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (eAMD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with treatment-naïve eAMD treated with pro re nata (PRN) monotherapy of IVZ (1.25 mg/0.05 ml) or IVB (1.25 mg/0.05 ml) with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were retrospectively analyzed. Study outcomes included change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness, mean number of injections, and total medication cost in both the groups at 12 months.

RESULTS

Forty-seven eyes (IVZ, 18/47 [38.3%] and IVB, 29/47 [61.7%]) from 47 treatment-naive patients were included. The change in BCVA for patients receiving IVZ was from 0.61 ± 0.33 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (Snellen 20/81; range: 20/38-20/174) to 0.45 ± 0.31 (Snellen 20/56; range: 20/27-20/115) at 1 year (P = 0.02). The total number of injections needed to achieve the resolution of intraretinal or subretinal fluid was 2.6 ± 1.4 and 3.5 ± 1.3 for IVZ and IVB, respectively (P = 0.029). Direct medication cost of IVZ and IVB in our cohort on PRN basis was an average of US$78 (2.6 × US$30) and US$175 (3.5 × US$50), respectively, through 1 year.

CONCLUSION

IVZ-PRN monotherapy resulted in improved visual acuity, reduced treatment burden, and reduced direct medication cost in comparison to IVB-PRN monotherapy through 1 year.

Pilot study of ziv-aflibercept in myopic choroidal neovascularisation patients

Background

Myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the most common sight-threatening complication associated with high myopia. The present study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the intravitreal injection of ziv-aflibercept in patients with myopic CNV.

Methods

This prospective interventional study was conducted on 20 eyes of 20 patients with active myopic CNV. Twelve patients were 40 years or older. This study was performed in the Ophthalmology Department of Tanta University Eye Hospital, Tanta University, Egypt. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed for all patients at baseline and monthly after injection during the 6-month follow up period. The main outcome measures were changes in BCVA and CMT. The exploratory outcome measures were CNV size, IOP and the number of injections needed in each age group during the study period.

Results

Patients with myopic CNV younger than 40 years needed fewer injections (2.00 ± 0.76) than patients older than 40 years (2.50 ± 1.00), with no statistical significance detected between the two groups (p-value 0.246). CNV was smaller in the younger age group (p-value 0.209), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved significantly in the younger and older age groups (p-values 0.001 and 0.028, respectively), and central macular thickness (CMT) decreased significantly after 6 months, from 242.88 ± 23.83 μm to 191.13 ± 13.83 μm in the younger age group and from 251.33 ± 26.60 μm to 197.08 ± 17.64 μm in the older age group (p = 0.001). No significant correlation was found between the final BCVA and either the spherical equivalent or central macular thickness after 6 months, with p-values of 0.135 and 0.145, respectively. No significant changes in IOP were detected in either group after the intravitreal injection.

Conclusion

Ziv-aflibercept is a highly effective and safe drug in cases of active myopic CNV; however, a larger number of patients and a longer follow-up period are needed to confirm our results.

This study was retrospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov (ID: NCT04290195) on 26-2-2020.

Ziv-aflibercept: A cost-effective, off-label, highly potent antagonist of vascular endothelial growth factor

Ziv-aflibercept (Zaltrap^® ), a recombinant fusion protein that binds diffusible vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), is approved for the treatment of metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Its molecular structure is the same as aflibercept (Eylea^® ), thus making it an attractive option for the off-label treatment of chorioretinal vascular conditions. Ziv-aflibercept is distributed in 4 and 8 ml vials for intravenous use, and its cost after compounding is similar to bevacizumab. Studies with retinal pigment epithelium cytotoxicity, animal histologic sections and electroretinography have demonstrated its safety, and mathematical modelling combined with over four dozen clinical publications from different ophthalmic centres throughout the world attest to its efficacy. No appreciable differences in visual or anatomic outcomes between 1.25 mg (0.05 ml) and 2.5 mg (1.0 ml) doses have been noted. The long duration of action combined with the low cost make ziv-aflibercept an attractive anti-VEGF treatment option, especially in low- and middle-income countries where its popularity is increasing.

INTRAVITREAL ZIV-AFLIBERCEPT FOR NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION: 52-Week Results

PURPOSE

To evaluate the 52-week safety and efficacy of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

METHODS

All patients received three monthly intravitreal injections of 0.05 mL of ziv-aflibercept (1.25 mg) followed by a pro re nata regimen. The best-corrected visual acuity and spectral domain optical coherence tomography were obtained at baseline and monthly. Full-field and multifocal electroretinograms were obtained at baseline and 4, 13, 26, and 52 weeks. For some full-field electroretinography parameters, we calculated the differences between baseline and 52 weeks and then compared those differences between treated and untreated fellow eyes.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were included and 14 completed the 52-week follow-up. The mean best-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.95 ± 0.41 (20/200) at baseline to 0.75 ± 0.51 (20/125) logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution at 52 weeks (P = 0.0066). The baseline central retinal thickness decreased from 478.21 ± 153.48 μm to 304.43 ± 98.59 μm (P = 0.0004) at 52 weeks. Full-field electroretinography parameters used to assess retinal toxicity after intravitreal injections (rod response and oscillatory potentials) remained unchanged during follow-up. The average multifocal electroretinography macular response in 5° showed increased N1-P1 amplitude and decreased P1 implicit time (P < 0.05). One patient presented with intraocular inflammation after the seventh intravitreal procedure.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that intravitreal ziv-aflibercept might be safe and effective for treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration. More patients and a longer follow-up are needed to confirm the long-term outcomes of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept.

Comparison of Loading Doses of Ziv-Aflibercept and Aflibercept in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of 3 loading doses of ziv-aflibercept and aflibercept in treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).

DESIGN

Retrospective, nonrandomized, comparative study.

METHODS

This was a retrospective chart review which included cases with treatment-naïve nAMD. The patients were divided into 2 groups (group 1, ziv-aflibercept; group 2, aflibercept). Groups 1 and 2 received 1.25 mg/0.05 mL of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept and 2 mg/0.05 mL aflibercept, respectively every month for 3 months. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in Snellen and logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), central subfoveal thickness (CSFT), subretinal hyperreflective material height, neurosensory detachment height, and pigment epithelial detachment height were recorded at baseline and 3 monthly follow-up.

RESULTS

Twenty-three eyes of 23 patients were included (males 14, females 9). Twelve and 11 eyes were included in group 1 and group 2, respectively. Group 1 showed statistically significant improvement in BCVA (P < 0.001) and CSFT (P=0.007) through 3 months compared with baseline. There was significant change in BCVA from baseline at 1st month (P = 0.007), 2nd month (P = 0.002) and 3rd month (P = 0.008). In group 2, there was no significant improvement in BCVA, CSFT, subretinal hyperreflective material height, neurosensory detachment, and pigment epithelial detachment height from baseline through 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

After 3 loading doses, ziv-aflibercept showed efficacy in terms of improved BCVA and reduction of CSFT from baseline whereas aflibercept did not show such improvement. Considering the cost- effectiveness and the proven safety of ziv-aflibercept, it is a viable option for the crucial, initial 3 doses in the treatment of nAMD.

Comprehensive biophysical and functional study of ziv-aflibercept: characterization and forced degradation

Aflibercept (AFL) is an Fc fusion protein used in the treatment of colorectal cancers and different ophthalmological diseases. There are two medicines in which AFL is the active substance: Zaltrap and Eylea, referred as ziv-AFL and AFL respectively. No proper accelerated degradation studies were published on either AFL or ziv-AFL. These studies are essential during research, development and manufacturing stages. Here, we characterized ziv-AFL and submitted it to different stress conditions: light, 60 °C, freeze-thaw cycles, changes in pH, high hypertonic solution and strong denaturing conditions. We used an array of techniques to detect aggregation (SE-HPLC/DAD and DLS), changes in secondary structure (Far-UV circular dichroism), changes in conformation or tertiary structure (Intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence) and alterations in functionality (ELISA). Results indicate that aggregation is common degradation pathway. Two different types of aggregates were detected: dimers and high molecular weight aggregates attributed to β-amyloid-like structures. Secondary structure was maintained in most of the stress tests, while conformation was altered by almost all the tests except for the freeze-thaw cycles. Functionality, evaluated by its immunochemical reaction with VEGF, was found to be stable but with decrease when exposed to light and with likely partial inactivation of the drug when pH was altered.

Safety of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept in choroido-retinal vascular diseases: A randomised double-blind intervention study

AIM

To evaluate the safety of 1.25mg and 2mg intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) in Ghanaian eyes with choroido-retinal vascular diseases.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomised, double blind, interventional study.

METHODS

Twenty patients with centre involving macular oedema in diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, and neovascular age-related macular degeneration were assigned to 2 groups receiving 3 doses of 1.25mg/0.05ml (group 1) and 2mg/0.08ml IVZ (Group 2) at 4 weekly intervals. Safety data was collected after 30 minutes, 1 and 7 days, and 4, 8 and 12 weeks after injection. Changes in continuous variables were compared using paired t-test and categorical variables were compared using chi-square test of proportions. Repeated-Measures ANOVA with nesting test was used to compare variations in continuous variables by IVZ dose over time. Primary outcome measures were ocular and systemic adverse events at 4 weeks.

RESULTS

Eleven females and nine males, with mean age of 63.2± 7.3 years were included. Ocular adverse events included subconjunctival haemorrhage in 1 eye, intraocular pressure (IOP) >21mmHg at 30 minutes in 6 eyes and mild pain in 3 eyes at 1-day. There was no significant difference in IOP rise between the 2 groups at 30 minutes (p = 0.21). No other ocular or systemic adverse events were observed. There was significant improvement in the best corrected visual acuity (LogMAR) from 0.95±0.6 to 0.6±0.4 (p<0.01) and 0.47±0.3 (p<0.01), reduction in central subfield foveal thickness from 405.9±140 um at baseline to 255.6±75 um (p<0.01) and 238±88 um (p<0.01) at 4 and 12 weeks respectively, although no difference was observed between the 2 groups (p = 0.34).

CONCLUSION

IVZ at 1.25mg and 2mg had similar safety profiles, and did not have any major unexpected adverse events. Further studies with larger cohorts are required to confirm efficacy.

Safety of 5914 intravitreal ziv-aflibercept injections

Purpose

To analyse the pooled safety data of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) therapy for various retinal conditions.

Methods

This was a retrospective, observational study which included patients from 14 participating centres who received IVZ. The medical records of patients who received IVZ from March 2015 through October 2017 were evaluated. Patient demographics and ocular details were compiled. Ocular and systemic adverse events that occurred within 1 month of IVZ injections were recorded and defined as either procedure-related or drug-related.

Results

A total of 1704 eyes of 1562 patients received 5914 IVZ injections (mean±SD: 3.73±3.94) during a period of 2.5 years. The age of patients was 60.6±12.8 years (mean±SD) and included diverse chorioretinal pathologies. Both ocular (one case of endophthalmitis, three cases of intraocular inflammation, and one case each of conjunctival thinning/necrosis and scleral nodule) and systemic adverse events (two cases of myocardial infarction, one case of stroke and two deaths) were infrequent.

Conclusion

This constitutes the largest pooled safety report on IVZ use and includes patients from 14 centres distributed across the globe. It shows that IVZ has an acceptable ocular and systemic safety profile with incidences of adverse events similar to those of other vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitory drugs. The analysis supports the continued use of IVZ in various retinal disorders.

Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept in Treatment of Naïve Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Related Choroidal Neovascular Membrane

Purpose. To study the effect and outcome of intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept (IVZ) in treatment of Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR) related Choroidal Neovascular Membrane (CNVM). Methods. A case report of 48-year-old male patient treated with 1.25 mg/0.05 ml IVZ (total 3 doses at monthly intervals) in CSCR related CNVM. Pre- and posttreatment fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) were done to document response along with improvement in visual acuity. Patients. Single eye of a 48-year-old male patient. Results. Regression of CNVM was noted with improvement of macular contour and thickness on OCT and cessation of leakage on FFA. Visual acuity improved from 3/60, <N36 to 6/12, N12. Discussion. Anti-VEGF injections have shown benefit in treatment of CNVM. There is very little information about benefit of IVZ in CSCR related CNVM. Conclusion. IVZ is effective in regression of CSCR related CNVM and is associated with better macular anatomy and improved visual function.

CLINICAL AND ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL EVALUATION AFTER INTRAVITREAL ZIV-AFLIBERCEPT FOR EXUDATIVE AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

Fifteen patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration were treated with intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept (1.25 mg). Ziv-aflibercept improved the best-corrected visual acuity, multifocal electroretinography amplitudes, and central retinal thickness from baseline to 26 weeks. No retinal toxicity on full-field electroretinography or adverse events occurred during the follow-up period.

To evaluate the 6-month safety and efficacy of ziv-aflibercept intravitreal injections for treating exudative age-related macular degeneration.

One-Year Results of a Trial Comparing 2 Doses of Intravitreal Ziv-aflibercept versus Bevacizumab for Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema

PURPOSE

To report 1-year findings of a trial comparing 2 doses of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) for treatment of center-involving diabetic macular edema (DME).

DESIGN

Three-armed double-blind randomized clinical trial.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 123 eyes with center-involving DME.

METHODS

In this clinical trial, eyes with DME were randomly assigned to 2.5 mg intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (42 eyes), 1.25 mg intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (42 eyes), and 1.25 mg IVB injections (39 eyes), every 4 weeks for 3 loading injections and then every 4 weeks for IVB and every 8 weeks for ziv-aflibercept injections. The patients were followed up to 1 year with complete ophthalmologic examination and central macular thickness (CMT) measurement by optical coherence tomography.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 1 year.

RESULTS

Although no significant difference was evident between the 2 ziv-aflibercept groups at 1 year, BCVA change was significantly better in both ziv-aflibercept groups (-0.33±0.26 and -0.38±0.34 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) equal to 16 and 18 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters, for IVZ 2.5 and 1.25 mg, respectively) than in the IVB group (-0.26±0.35 logMAR, equal to 14 ETDRS letters) at final follow-up (P = 0.007 for IVZ 2.5 mg and P = 0.029 for IVZ 1.25 mg). Regarding CMT changes, there was no significant difference between the 2 ziv-aflibercept groups; however, a significantly greater reduction in CMT was observed in the ziv-aflibercept 2.5 mg group in comparison to the IVB group at 1 year (P = 0.029). Subgroup analysis disclosed no difference in BCVA outcomes at 1 year among the eyes with baseline BCVA >20/50. In the eyes with baseline BCVA ≤20/50, however, the improvement was significantly better at 1 year in both ziv-aflibercept groups compared with the IVB group (P = 0.002 for IVZ 2.5 mg and P = 0.001 for IVZ 1.25 mg).

CONCLUSIONS

The 1-year results of this trial disclosed more vision improvement with IVZ compared with IVB in the treatment of center-involving DME. This stronger effect of IVZ, however, was detected in the eyes with initial worse level of vision (≤20/50).

Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept: Clinical Effects and Economic Impact

During the past decade, drugs that inhibit the actions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have become standard-of-care treatment for a variety of chorioretinal vascular conditions. The off-label, intravitreal use of ziv-aflibercept (Zaltrap) has provided clinicians with an additional cost-effective drug. The commercial preparation of ziv-aflibercept contains the same aflibercept (VEGF-trap) molecule as Eylea but has a much higher osmolarity (1000 mOsm/kg vs 300 mOsm/kg). Initial concerns regarding cytotoxicity and long-term safety of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept have been largely negated after a series of publications failed to identify adverse ocular and systemic side effects. Both treatment-naive and anti-VEGF‒resistant cases of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), retinal vein occlusion (RVO), and choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) may respond as well to ziv-aflibercept as to aflibercept. A higher dose of ziv-aflibercept (2 mg in 0.08 mL) does not cause any adverse effects during short-term follow-up period (1 month). Data from various sources suggest that ziv-aflibercept may be as cost effective as bevacizumab, thereby making it an attractive treatment option in low- and middle-income countries. However, problems with off-label use, compounding, and counterfeiting limit its availability in many countries. Data from prospective, randomized, multicenter clinical trials are still required to convince physicians and regulatory bodies of its clinical efficacy and potential as early therapy.

One-year outcomes of ziv-aflibercept for macular edema in central retinal vein occlusion

Purpose

To report the 12-month efficacy and safety outcomes of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept in macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

Methods

Interventional case series documenting 12-month outcomes of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (1.25 mg in 0.05 mL) in 6 patients with treatment-naive macular edema secondary to CRVO. All patients had comprehensive ophthalmic examination, spectral domain optical coherence tomography at baseline and all follow-up visits, and fluorescein. Retreatment decisions were based on recurrence or persistence of intraretinal or subretinal fluid, deterioration in visual acuity (VA), increase in central subfield thickness (CST) by ≥ 50 μm from the previous visit, or lowest recorded CST.

Results

Participants had (2 males, 4 females) an average age of 53.5 years. From baseline to 12 months, the mean logMAR VA improved from 0.86 (Snellen ≈ 20/145) to 0.33 (Snellen ≈ 20/40), central macular thickness decreased from 519 μm to 255 μm, and total macular volume decreased from 14.7 mm³ to 7.1 mm³. No eyes had uveitis, cataract progression, intraocular pressure (IOP) elevations, or systemic adverse events.

Conclusions and importance

Ziv-aflibercept achieves favorable intermediate-term functional and structural outcomes in macular edema secondary to CRVO. No safety concerns were raised. Low-cost ziv-aflibercept may thus be useful for CRVO in resource-poor countries. Further prospective studies in larger cohorts are needed further establish the efficacy and safety of this agent.

Intravitreal injection of ziv-aflibercept in the treatment of choroidal and retinal vascular diseases

PURPOSE

To investigate the short-term outcomes after intravitreal injection of ziv-aflibercept in the treatment of choroidal and retinal vascular diseases.

METHODS

Thirty-four eyes of 29 patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion (RVO) received a single dose intravitreal injection of 0.05 ml ziv-aflibercept (1.25 mg). Visual acuity, spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) activity, and possible side effects were assessed before and at 1 week and 1 month after the intervention.

RESULTS

At 1 month after treatment, mean central macular thickness (CMT) significantly decreased from 531.09 μm to 339.5 μm (P < 0.001), and no signs of side effects were observed in any subject. All patients responded to treatment in terms of reduction in CMT. The improvement in visual acuity was statistically non-significant.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that a single dose intravitreal injection of ziv-aflibercept may have acceptable relative safety and efficacy in the treatment of patients with intraocular vascular disease. The trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT2015081723651N1).

Regression of Inflamed Pterygia by Frequent High-Dose Intralesional Ziv-Aflibercept

PURPOSE

Intralesional single low-dose vascular endothelial growth factor antagonists have traditionally failed in causing regression of pterygia. The current pilot study investigates the role of high-dose repeated intralesional ziv-aflibercept in causing regression of inflamed or recurring pterygia.

METHODS

This prospective study from January 2015 to April 2017 consisted of using high dose of ziv-aflibercept between 0.1 mL (2.5 mg) and 0.3 mL (7.5 mg), depending on the pterygium size and the degree of inflammation. The injection was deep after tunneling the 30-gauge needle away from the injection site to avoid reflux. Reinjection was done at the first sign of recurrence of inflammation. The main outcome measure was regression of pterygial vessels by central retraction as documented by slit-lamp photography and anterior optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

Four subjects, one with bilateral pterygia, were treated. Regression of new vessels and retraction of the leading edge of pterygial vessels occurred in all treated eyes (5 eyes) with dramatic visual gain in 1 eye from counting fingers to 6/9 (20/30). Numbers of injections were 9 (1 eye; 18 mo), 3 (2 eyes; 12 and 18 mo), and 1 (2 eyes; 2.5 and 7 mo).

CONCLUSIONS

Frequent high-dose intralesional ziv-aflibercept can lead to regression and/or retraction of inflamed pterygia in this pilot study.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02486484.

One-year outcome of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept therapy for non-responsive neovascular age-related macular degeneration

Aim

To evaluate 12-month outcome of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) therapy in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) that are non-responsive to bevacizumab and ranibizumab.

Methods

This retrospective study included 16 eyes (14 patients) with nAMD who were on prior treatment with bevacizumab and ranibizumab and were treated with as-needed IVZ (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) for 12 months. The primary outcome measure was the mean change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and secondary outcome measures included mean change in central macular thickness (CMT), retinal pigment epithelial detachment (RPED) heights, longest treatment free interval, presence of subretinal fluid (SRF) and intraretinal fluid (IRF) and adverse events.

Results

There was no change in the mean logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA at baseline and following treatment with IVZ therapy (p=0.978). The mean number of IVZ injections during 12 months was 5.9±3.3, and the mean number of antivascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) injections prior to switching to IVZ was 8.4±4.7. The mean treatment free interval was longer during IVZ therapy (114.4±67.1 days) compared with 76.3±54.6 days before IVZ therapy (p=0.03). Five (31.25%) eyes had visual gains of at least 0.1 logMAR, 3 (18.75%) eyes had stable BCVA (within 0.1 logMAR) and 8 (50%) eyes had BCVA decline of at least 0.1 logMAR. There was no significant difference in the mean CMT, RPED heights and presence of IRF and SRF at 12 months compared with baseline. No adverse events were noted.

Conclusion

IVZ increased the treatment free interval in non-responders but no significant change in visual and anatomic outcomes.

Aflibercept in age-related macular degeneration: evaluating its role as a primary therapeutic option

The recent VIEW studies have demonstrated the non-inferiority of monthly and bi-monthly aflibercept in the management of wet age related macular degeneration (AMD) compared with ranibizumab. However, the current data are limited mainly to fixed dosing regimens with few studies looking at flexible dosing regimens of aflibercept in wet AMD. In addition, recent data from the VIEW 96 week extension has shown that patients being shifted from fixed dosing regimens to PRN have shown a drop in visual acuity and increase in central macular thickness. This is an indication that fixed dosing, a non-sustainable option, is only effective as long as it is continued. Regimens such as treat and extend (TAE) and pro-re nata (PRN) have been studied extensively in ranibizumab and bevacizumab and have shown to be effective options. With the presence of effective, established and less costly drugs such as ranibizumab and bevacizumab, the role of aflibercept as a primary treatment modality has yet to be clearly defined. The current review provides an analysis of the VIEW studies, as well as the extension phases. It also looks at post hoc analysis of predictors of response and outcomes. We have also conducted a search on studies comparing between PRN regimens using aflibercept and other anti-VEGF agents. This review also explores cheaper off label aflibercept; ziv-aflibercept in the treatment of wet AMD. The main purpose of the review is to delineate the role of aflibercept as a primary therapeutic option and if there are any significant advantages that would advocate its use over alternative anti-VEGF drugs. Finally, we propose a treatment algorithm for patients being started on aflibercept during the first year and thereafter.

Long-term safety and efficacy of ziv-aflibercept in retinal diseases

AIMS

To investigate the long-term safety of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept in eyes receiving six or more intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept, an off-label substitute to the approved aflibercept.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with retinal disease receiving six or more of intravitreal 0.05 mL ziv-aflibercept (1.25 mg) injections were followed monthly in three centres. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMar)) and central macular thickness (CMT) on spectral domain optical coherence tomography and monitoring for ocular inflammation, progression of lens opacities and intraocular pressure rise. Paired comparison was done using Wilcoxon signed-rank test calculator.

RESULTS

Sixty-five eyes of 60 consecutive patients received a mean of 8.4 (6-17) intravitreal injections with a baseline mean logMAR BCVA of 0.98±0.56 and CMT 432.7±163.0 μm and followed for a mean of 9.2 months (range 6-18 months). After the sixth injection, mean BCVA improved to 0.57±0.36 (p=0.001) and CMT decreased to 274.8±117.8 μm (p=0.0001). At the 9-month follow-up, mean BCVA improved to 0.62±0.37 (p=0.0004) and mean CMT decreased to 292.0±160.9 μm (p<0.01) in 19 eyes. At 1 year, mean BCVA was 0.73±0.52 and CMT 311.6±232.5 μm in seven eyes. Intraocular pressures did not increase after injections. One subject developed transient mild iritis at the fourth injection but not on subsequent injections. No lens opacity progression or endophthalmitis was noted. Systemic adverse effects were not registered.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeated intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept appear tolerable, safe and efficacious in the therapy of retinal disease.

Two Doses of Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept versus Bevacizumab in Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema: A Three-Armed, Double-Blind Randomized Trial

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of 2 doses of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in the treatment of center-involved diabetic macular edema (DME) at 12 weeks.

DESIGN

Three-armed, double-blind, randomized clinical trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Eyes with center-involved DME.

METHODS

In this trial, 123 eyes with DME were randomly assigned to 3 injections of 1.25 mg IVZ, 2.5 mg IVZ, and 1.25 mg IVB every 4 weeks. Complete ophthalmologic examination and central macular thickness (CMT) measurement by optical coherence tomography were performed every 4 weeks up to 12 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Although no significant difference was evident between the 2 ziv-aflibercept groups at 12 weeks, the BCVA change was significantly better in the ziv-aflibercept 1.25 mg group than in the IVB group at the 12-week visit (P = 0.021). In regard to CMT changes, there was no significant difference between the 2 ziv-aflibercept groups; however, a significantly greater reduction in CMT was observed in the ziv-aflibercept 2.5 mg group compared with the IVB group at 12 weeks (P = 0.037). Subgroup analysis disclosed no difference in BCVA outcomes at 12 weeks among the groups in the eyes with baseline BCVA ≥20/50. In the eyes with baseline BCVA <20/50, the improvement was significantly better at 12 weeks in the ziv-aflibercept 1.25 mg group compared with the IVB group (P = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

The 12-week results of this trial disclosed that both 1.25 mg and 2.5 mg doses of IVZ and IVB demonstrated BCVA improvement over baseline in the treatment of center-involved DME. However, a stronger effect of IVZ compared with IVB in terms of both visual acuity improvement and macular thickness reduction was detected in the eyes with initial BCVA <20/50. Longer-term efficacy and safety data will be needed to understand the role for this drug in practice.

Intravitreal ziv-aflibercept for macular edema following retinal vein occlusion

Aim

To report the efficacy of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept injections in eyes with macular edema due to retinal vein occlusions (RVOs).

Methods

Consecutive patients with persistent or recurrent macular edema (central macula thickness >250 μm) due to RVO were enrolled in this prospective study. Study eyes received intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) at baseline. Patients were reassessed monthly for 4 months and given additional injections pro re nata for worsening best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraretinal edema or subretinal fluid seen on spectral domain optical coherence tomography, or central macular thickness (CMT) measurements >250 μm. The primary endpoint was improvement in mean CMT at 4 months. Secondary endpoints included improvement in mean BCVA, and ocular and systemic safety signals.

Results

Nine eyes (five central and four branch RVOs) of nine patients were enrolled. The mean ± standard deviation CMT decreased from 604±199 μm at baseline to 319±115 μm (P=0.001) at 1 month and to 351±205 μm (P=0.026) at 4 months. The mean BCVA did not improve significantly from baseline (1.00 LogMAR) to the 1-month (0.74 LogMAR; P=0.2) and 4-month (0.71 LogMAR; P=0.13) visits. No safety signals were noted.

Conclusion

In this small prospective study, intravitreal ziv-aflibercept significantly improved mean CMT in eyes with persistent or recurrent macular edema due to RVOs. Prospective, randomized trials comparing ziv-aflibercept with standard pharmacotherapy are needed to better define efficacy and safety.