- Breaking News Related to Macular Degeneration, Cataract, Glaucoma, Corneal Disease and Other Eye Conditions - http://eyedocnews.com -
Pharmacokinetics of Lucentis and Avastin, Better Outcomes?
Posted By Dr. Randall Wong On October 10, 2009 @ 10:21 am In Macular Degeneration | Comments Disabled
The pharmacokinetics of Lucentis (ranibizumab) and Avastin (bevacizumab) are dramatically different and may account for different treatment protocols.
The binding affinity of ranibizumab (Lucentis) is much more specific than bevacizumab (Avastin), but the half live of bevacizumab is quite longer than ranibizumab.
Lucentis/ranibizumab = Higher Binding Affinity
Dosing regimens vary differently across the country and the differences in the pharmacokinetic profile may be the reason. Presently, dosing of either drug may be once a month, but patients treated with Lucentis (ranibizumab) may fare better with every 2 week dosing, at least in the induction phase. Spacing of injections; however, after induction may be possible because of the longer half-life of bevacizumab.
Avastin/bevacizumab = Longer Half Life
Using Lucentis initially, with higher binding affinity, then maintenance with Avastin, due to a longer half-life, may be the perfect combination.
Head to head studies of the 2 drugs are anticipated.
Randall V. Wong, M.D.
www.RetinaEyeDoctor.com [1]
Retina Specialist
Article printed from Breaking News Related to Macular Degeneration, Cataract, Glaucoma, Corneal Disease and Other Eye Conditions: http://eyedocnews.com
URL to article: http://eyedocnews.com/002320-pharmacokinetics-of-lucentis-and-avastin-better-outcomes/
URLs in this post:
[1] www.RetinaEyeDoctor.com: http://www.RetinaEyeDoctor.com
Click here to print.
Copyright © 2008 Eye Doc Talk. All rights reserved.