FDA approves first prefilled syringe of ranibizumab

The FDA last week approved a 0.5 mg ranibizumab (Lucentis) prefilled syringe for treating AMD and macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion. It's the first approved, ready-to-use syringe of an anti-VEGF.

According to Genentech, the ready-to-use delivery method will streamline the preparation and administration process, obviating the steps involved in using medicine from a vial. Physicians will need only to attach the needle and make any necessary dose adjustments prior to injection.

“The FDA approval of the Lucentis prefilled syringe marks a new milestone in our ongoing commitment to people affected by vision-threatening eye diseases,” said Sandra Horning, MD, Genentech’s chief medical officer.

The prefilled syringe is expected to be available in early 2017.