Reinforcing Safety and Patient Confidence with Second-Generation Anti-VEGF Therapies

In this segment, Dr. Harit Bhatt and Dr. Deepak Sambhara address patient and physician concerns regarding the safety profiles of second-generation anti-VEGF agents—aflibercept 8 mg and faricimab. Dr. Sambhara notes that while isolated cases of intraocular inflammation (IOI) or retinal vasculitis have been reported, the incidence is extremely rare, often resolving spontaneously or with short-term topical steroids. He emphasizes that these events occur so infrequently that they are not a routine part of informed consent discussions. Dr. Bhatt echoes this sentiment, describing his similarly minimal experience with mild, self-limiting inflammation and no severe complications. Both physicians reflect on the public perception shaped by pharmaceutical advertisements, underscoring the importance of educating patients about the strong real-world safety and efficacy of these agents. These therapies remain dependable, durable, and safe, reinforcing clinician confidence and patient reassurance in long-term treatment planning.