Diabetic Macular Edema​

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a common complication of diabetic retinopathy that can lead to vision loss, and in severe cases, permanent blindness. It is estimated that around 600,000 people in Canada are affected.

DME is associated with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In diabetic patients, high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, impairing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to retinal tissue. This makes the blood vessels more fragile, leading to leakage and fluid accumulation in the macula, resulting in macular edema.

Diabetic macular edema (DME) may present with the following symptoms:

• Blurred or decreased vision

• Distorted shapes (metamorphopsia)

• Faded or washed-out colors

• Dark spots or central vision loss (scotomas)

EYLEA for Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

EYLEA (aflibercept) is an intravitreal injection used to treat diabetic macular edema (DME), a complication of diabetic retinopathy. It works by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PGF) - two proteins that play a role in abnormal blood vessel formation and leakage in the retina. By blocking these factors, EYLEA helps to reduce vascular leakage, hemorrhaging, and the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to vision loss.

EYLEA has been clinically proven to improve vision and slow the progression of vision loss associated with DME. It is administered directly into the eye (intravitreal injection) and may need to be given periodically depending on the individual’s response to treatment.

Important Consideration: EYLEA has not been studied in children or adolescents, and its use is not recommended in these age groups.