Age-related macular degeneration can rapidly steal your sight and the treatment, injections in the eye, can be daunting.
But a new implant not only treats the disease, but makes those shots unnecessary.
The implant, called Susvimo, is the size of a grain of rice and is implanted into the upper part of the affected eye where it can't be perceived and won't impede vision. It works by regularly releasing a dose of the drug ranibizumab, which reduces blood vessel growth and leakage in the eye.
FDA approved in October 2021, the device works as well as injections, but may cause redness, light sensitivity, or eye surface erosion.
Yet people who understandably hate to get injections in the eye may sometimes skip appointments, which reduces the effectiveness of the treatment. The implant eliminates those injections and lasts for six months.
Allyson Good curates senior living, health, and family content. She is formerly the Managing Editor of Active Life, a print newspaper published in 2016-2017 for seniors, choosing practical articles on health, money, safety, and everyday living for older readers. She is also an avid gardener and offers up Garden Hints and Tips on a regular basis.
