Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor), a type of eye medicine that stops abnormal blood vessel growth
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Aflibercept (sold as Eylea) is a special injection given directly into the eye that works by blocking a protein called VEGF, which causes abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage in the eye. This helps protect and improve your vision.
Binds to and inactivates vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PlGF), preventing their interaction with VEGF receptors on retinal and choroidal endothelial cells, thereby inhibiting pathological neovascularization and vascular permeability.
Serious eye conditions that cause vision loss, including wet age-related macular degeneration (damage to the central part of the eye in older people), diabetic eye disease (eye problems caused by diabetes), and swelling of the retina due to blocked blood vessels in the eye
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss your scheduled injection appointment, contact your eye doctor as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not try to make up for a missed dose on your own; your doctor will decide the best time for your next injection.
This injection must only be given by a qualified eye doctor in a proper clinical setting; never accept it from an unqualified person or informal seller. Attend all your follow-up appointments so your doctor can check for infections or complications. If you notice any sudden change in your vision after the injection, go to the hospital immediately and do not wait.
Tell your eye doctor about all other medications you are using, especially other eye drops or eye treatments. There are no major known food or alcohol interactions since the drug goes directly into the eye, but always inform your doctor about everything you take including herbal remedies.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Aflibercept with your other drugs?
Aflibercept is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may harm the unborn baby. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception and consult their doctor before treatment.
Eylea must be stored in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze it. Keep it in its original packaging to protect from light. In Nigeria's hot climate, never leave it outside the fridge, as it will spoil. This drug is handled and stored by your doctor or hospital, not at home.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
No brand names recorded for Aflibercept yet.
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.