Weighing the risks of anti-VEGF use in pregnancy: new insights from pharmacokinetic and safety data

When considering anti-VEGF treatments during pregnancy, ranibizumab and faricimab may be safer options compared to aflibercept and bevacizumab, according to a poster presented at the 24^th Euretina Congress.

Currently, drug manufacturers and regulators advise against using anti-VEGF treatments during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the potential harms. Currently, human safety data for anti-VEGF agents during pregnancy are limited.

Researchers conducted a PubMed literature search, focusing on pharmacokinetic and animal safety data. The study found that certain anti-VEGF drugs differ in placental transfer, systemic half-life, and effects on VEGF suppression. Drugs like ranibizumab and faricimab, which have shorter half-lives and do not significantly suppress maternal VEGF levels, may present fewer risks compared to aflibercept and bevacizumab. In addition, animal studies show that while aflibercept and bevacizumab have teratogenic effects, ranibizumab and faricimab appear safer in animal models.

Reference
Brown F, et al. The use of anti-VEGF agents in pregnancy – which agents should we use? [e-Poster Abstract]. Euretina Congress 2024. Barcelona, Spain 19 – 22 September 2024.

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