What is this medication?
FARICIMAB (far ik i mab) treats macular degeneration and macular edema. It works by closing up leaky blood vessels. This helps maintain vision. It is a monoclonal antibody.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Vabysmo
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Eye infection
- Eye inflammation
- Glaucoma
- An unusual or allergic reaction to faricimab, other medication, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is injected into the eye. It is given by a care team who specializes in this treatment.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
Keep appointments for follow-up doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.
What may interact with this medication?
Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye medication without talking to your care team.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Your vision may be tested before and during use of this medication.
Tell your care team right away if you have any change in your eyesight. This medication may cause temporary blurred vision. Do not drive or use machinery until your vision has returned to normal.
Do not become pregnant while taking this medication. Women should use a form of birth control while taking this medication. Women will also need to take it for 3 months after stopping the medication. There is a potential for serious harm to an unborn child. Tell your care team if you think you might be pregnant.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Heart attack—pain or tightness in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw, nausea, shortness of breath, cold or clammy skin, feeling faint or lightheaded
- New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge
- Sudden eye pain or change in vision such as blurry vision, seeing halos around lights, vision loss
- Stroke—sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, trouble speaking, confusion, trouble walking, loss of balance or coordination, dizziness, severe headache, change in vision
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Blurry vision
- Eye irritation or itching
- Increased tears after use
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medication?
This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.