Integrating Second-Generation Anti-VEGF Therapies into Clinical Practice

In this segment, Dr. Harit Bhatt and Dr. Deepak Sambhara discuss how they strategically incorporate second-generation anti-VEGF agents—faricimab and aflibercept 8 mg—into routine practice. Dr. Sambhara explains that he initially applies these therapies in his most challenging cases to validate real-world durability and efficacy. He emphasizes tailoring therapy based on disease severity, adherence, and treatment response, with the ultimate goal of maximizing vision and extending dosing intervals without sacrificing outcomes. However, he notes that payer restrictions and access barriers continue to limit widespread use, despite the strong efficacy and safety of these newer options. Dr. Bhatt agrees, adding that early clinical trial involvement facilitated confident adoption in practice. Both physicians highlight how having multiple durable, safe agents allows for more personalized and flexible management across retinal vascular diseases.