Key Takeaways
- Susvimo is an FDA-approved eye implant designed for diabetic macular edema that allows refills every six months instead of monthly injections.
- Diabetic macular edema affects approximately 5% to 7% of people with diabetes, risking permanent vision loss if neglected.
- Managing diabetes and adhering to regular eye check-ups can significantly lower the risk of vision impairment.
Susvimo, an innovative FDA-approved eye implant, is now one of the latest treatments available for diabetic macular edema (DME). This implant delivers ranibizumab, a previously injectable medication for this condition, directly into the eye. With Susvimo, patients need to visit their eye care providers only twice a year for refills, greatly reducing the frequency of appointments compared to traditional monthly treatments.
This device is surgically inserted into the eye, featuring a small reservoir that provides a steady delivery of ranibizumab over time.
What Is Diabetic Macular Edema?
Diabetic macular edema is a complication related to diabetes that can lead to vision loss. Persistently high blood sugar can harm the tiny blood vessels in the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.
This damage sparks the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that causes blood vessels to leak. When fluid accumulates in the macula—the area of the retina crucial for sharp, central vision—it results in swelling.
Without treatment, DME can lead to lasting vision impairment. It’s estimated that about 5.5% of individuals with diabetes will experience DME.
How Is It Usually Treated?
A common course of treatment for DME involves anti-VEGF therapy, which requires injections in the eye. Susvimo acts as an anti-VEGF inhibitor, preventing the growth of abnormal blood vessels and minimizing leakage from existing ones.
Traditionally, patients often undergo monthly injections at medical facilities. Recently, some individuals have been able to extend the duration between VEGF treatments, according to Jay Chhablani, MD, a professor of ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
It’s worth discussing with your doctor if it’s possible to decrease treatment frequency or shift to longer-lasting options such as Susvimo.
“The treatment plan for DME heavily relies on the individual and the severity of the condition. That’s why it’s crucial to have multiple options available, with many others currently undergoing clinical testing,” stated Chhablani.
For instance, he noted, some patients might respond well to Vabysmo, which inhibits both VEGF and Ang-2 to address DME.
What Are the Risks of DME Treatment?
All DME treatments come with potential risks, which should be thoroughly discussed with your healthcare provider, advised Lisa Schocket, MD, chair of ophthalmology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
For example, the eye implant procedures can result in discomfort or infections. Corticosteroid treatments may elevate eye pressure or increase cataract risk. While these side effects can often be managed, understanding potential risks is essential before proceeding with treatment.
When selecting a treatment for DME, it’s crucial to factor in time commitments.
“Monthly injections take time off work, as well as transportation costs and time,” Schocket remarked. Patients should inquire about whether a longer-lasting option could be viable now or if it might be suitable as their condition stabilizes.
Research indicates that Susvimo is as effective as the standard monthly ranibizumab injections. After a span of 60 weeks, individuals receiving the Susvimo implant experienced comparable vision outcomes to those with monthly injections. Both groups were able to read roughly two additional lines on an eye chart on average.
For individuals with diabetes, preventing vision loss also necessitates effective management of their underlying condition. This includes maintaining healthy blood sugar levels via diet, medication, and routine medical care, in addition to managing high blood pressure and cholesterol, said Schocket.
She also stressed the importance of regular eye exams.
“Diabetes heightens the risk of vision loss, and early detection is vital for treatment that can save vision. I always urge patients with diabetes to prioritize their eye check-ups,” Schocket emphasized.
