Izervay (Avacincaptad Pegol) Explained: Mechanism of Action, Benefits & Side Effects

Introduction

Izervay (Avacincaptad Pegol) is a groundbreaking treatment approved for geographic atrophy (GA), an advanced stage of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

GA is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, with no prior FDA-approved treatments targeting its progression.

Izervay offers a novel approach, slowing the degeneration of retinal cells and preserving vision for longer.

In this article, DengYue will explore Izervay’s mechanism of action, clinical benefits, safety profile, and patient considerations.

What is Izervay (Avacincaptad Pegol)?

Avacincaptad Pegol is an FDA-approved intravitreal injection for treating geographic atrophy secondary to AMD.

The drug is developed by Astellas Pharma US, Inc. and was granted FDA approval in August 2023.

Indications

• Primary Use: Treatment of geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to AMD
• Route of Administration: Intravitreal injection (injected into the eye)
• Dosage: 2 mg (0.1 mL of 20 mg/mL solution) once per month

Mechanism of Action: How Does Avacincaptad Pegol Work?

Avacincaptad Pegol is a complement inhibitor, specifically targeting C5 (complement component 5).

Understanding the Role of the Complement System in GA

The complement system is part of the immune response and helps eliminate pathogens.

However, overactivation of the complement system contributes to inflammation and cell damage in the retina, leading to geographic atrophy in AMD.

Izervay’s Targeted Action

• Izervay selectively inhibits C5, preventing the formation of membrane attack complexes (MAC).
• This inhibition reduces inflammation and retinal cell damage, ultimately slowing GA progression.
• Unlike previous AMD treatments targeting VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), Izervay focuses on complement system dysregulation, addressing a key factor in GA pathogenesis.

Avacincaptad Pegol Clinical Benefits: What Do Studies Show?

Izervay (Avacincaptad Pegol) is a complement C5 inhibitor designed to slow the progression of geographic atrophy (GA) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Clinical trials, particularly the GATHER2 Phase 3 study, have demonstrated significant benefits in preserving retinal function and reducing GA lesion growth.

Key Clinical Trial Findings (GATHER2 Study)

The GATHER2 Phase 3 trial demonstrated significant slowing of GA lesion growth in patients treated with Izervay drug:

• At 12 months: GA progression was reduced by 35% compared to placebo.
• At 24 months: Continued benefits in preserving retinal function and reducing vision loss.
• Safety Profile: Well-tolerated, with manageable side effects.

These findings position Izervay as an effective treatment option for slowing GA progression, potentially improving the quality of life for AMD patients.

Safety Profile: Common Side Effects & Risks

As with any intravitreal therapy, Izervay (Avacincaptad Pegol) has potential ocular-related side effects and risks.

While most adverse events are mild to moderate, some serious complications require immediate medical attention.

Most Common Side Effects

1. Ocular-related adverse events:
   • Eye pain
   • Vitreous floaters
   • Blurred vision
2. Rare but Serious Risks:
   • Endophthalmitis (eye infection)
   • Retinal detachment or tears
   • Increase in intraocular pressure (IOP)

Who Should NOT Use Izervay Avacincaptad Pegol?

Avacincaptad Pegol is contraindicated in:

• Patients with active or suspected ocular infections
• Patients allergic to avacincaptad pegol or formulation components

Izervay drug represents a breakthrough in the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA), offering clinically proven benefits in slowing disease progression.

While generally well-tolerated, patients and healthcare providers must remain vigilant about potential side effects.

Regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial for ensuring safe and effective treatment outcomes.

If you experience any unusual symptoms post-injection, seek immediate medical attention.

How Izervay Compares to Other GA Treatments

Izervay competes with another complement inhibitor, Syfovre (pegcetacoplan), which also targets GA.

Drug	Target	Dosing Frequency	Efficacy
Izervay (Avacincaptad Pegol)	C5 inhibitor	Monthly (Intravitreal)	Reduces GA lesion growth by ~35%
Syfovre (Pegcetacoplan)	C3 inhibitor	Every 25–60 days	Reduces GA lesion growth by ~22%–36%

Why Choose Izervay Avacincaptad Pegol?

• Targeted C5 inhibition may lower inflammation more specifically than C3 inhibition.
• Simple monthly dosing instead of variable intervals.
• Similar efficacy to Syfovre with comparable safety profile.

Both Izervay and Syfovre represent major advancements in the treatment of GA due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

While both drugs slow disease progression, Izervay’s targeted C5 inhibition and simple monthly dosing make it a strong contender for patients seeking effective and consistent treatment.

Choosing the right therapy should be based on individual patient needs, medical history, and physician recommendations.

Patient FAQs: What You Need to Know

1. How long does Izervay take to work?

Patients may start seeing effects within a few months, but long-term benefits accumulate over time.

2. Will Izervay restore lost vision?

No, Izervay does not reverse vision loss, but it slows down disease progression to preserve remaining vision.

3. How is Izervay administered?

Izervay is injected directly into the eye by an ophthalmologist or retina specialist. The procedure is quick and minimally painful.

4. Does insurance cover Izervay?

Izervay is covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare. Patients should check with their provider for specific coverage details.

Conclusion

Izervay (Avacincaptad Pegol) is a breakthrough therapy for geographic atrophy (GA) in AMD, offering significant reduction in disease progression.

By targeting C5 complement inhibition, Avacincaptad Pegol drug protects retinal cells from further damage, helping patients maintain their vision for as long as possible.

With its strong clinical trial results, well-established safety profile, and convenient dosing, Izervay represents a major advancement in ophthalmology and AMD treatment.

If you are interested in the Avacincaptad Pegol treatment, please contact us, DengYueMed.