Overview
Susvimo is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), two complications of diabetes that can lead to vision loss. To qualify for Susvimo, a person must have already responded to at least two prior intravitreal (into the eye) injections of a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor. Susvimo is also known by its drug name, ranibizumab injection.

Susvimo is a VEGF inhibitor delivered through a small implant placed in the eye. It slowly releases medication over time to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the retina, which helps to stabilize or improve vision.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Susvimo is administered via a surgically implanted ocular device. For DME, the device is typically refilled every 24 weeks (approximately every six months). For DR, the refill schedule is typically every 36 weeks (approximately every nine months). Supplemental injections may be given if needed. Susvimo should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Susvimo include conjunctival hemorrhage (bleeding on the white of the eye), conjunctival hyperemia (redness of the eye), iritis (inflammation of the colored part of the eye), eye pain, conjunctival disorder, cataract, and vitreous hemorrhage (bleeding into the gel-like part of the eye).

Rare but serious side effects may include endophthalmitis (a severe eye infection), rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (retina pulling away from the back of the eye), implant dislocation, septum dislodgement (movement of the implant’s seal), conjunctival erosion or retraction, and decreased vision after surgery. Vitrectomy (eye surgery) or other medical procedures may be required to manage these complications.

For more information about this treatment, visit:
Susvimo (Ranibizumab Injection) for Intravitreal Use via Susvimo Ocular implant — Genentech