Macular Degeneration

What is Anti-VEGF for Wet AMD?

Intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents block vascular endothelial growth factor, halting choroidal neovascularization in wet age-related macular degeneration. Without treatment, severe vision loss is nearly universal — with consistent treatment, vision is preserved or improved in 90% of patients.

Why China?

• Cost per injection: $400-$900 (with biosimilar) vs. $1,800-$2,500 in the US
• Domestic conbercept: Chinese-developed VEGF-trap with extended dosing
• Latest agents: Faricimab (Vabysmo) and aflibercept 8mg available at top retinal centers
• Annual cost (8 injections): $4,000-$7,500 vs. $20,000-$35,000 in the US

Who is a candidate?

• Active wet AMD (CNV with intra/subretinal fluid)
• Diabetic macular edema
• Retinal vein occlusion with macular edema
• Myopic CNV

Outcomes

Vision stabilization (lose <15 letters): 95%. Vision improvement (gain ≥15 letters): 30-40%. Treatment burden: typically 6-8 injections in year 1, decreasing with treat-and-extend.