Macular degeneration, particularly the wet form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults. Left untreated, it can cause significant central vision loss, making daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces extremely difficult. Thankfully, modern treatment options—most notably intravitreal injections—have changed the outlook for many patients. These injections deliver medication directly into the eye to help stop abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce fluid buildup, both of which are responsible for vision loss in wet AMD. While the idea of an eye injection may sound intimidating, the procedure is quick, relatively painless, and often highly effective. With regular treatment, many patients can maintain or even improve their vision. Understanding how these injections work, what to expect during the procedure, and how often they’re needed is key to managing macular degeneration and preserving sight.
How Injections Help Treat Wet Macular Degeneration
Injections for wet macular degeneration typically involve anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) medications, such as Lucentis®, Eylea®, or Avastin®. These drugs block the signals that cause abnormal blood vessels to grow under the retina—a hallmark of wet AMD. By stopping this growth and preventing fluid leakage, these medications help stabilize and, in many cases, improve vision. The procedure itself is done in a doctor’s office and only takes a few minutes. After numbing the eye, the ophthalmologist gently injects the medication into the vitreous gel near the retina. Most patients require a series of injections, especially in the first few months, followed by maintenance treatments every 4 to 8 weeks. While injections do not cure AMD, they dramatically slow its progression. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are critical for the best outcomes. Side effects are rare but may include eye redness, mild irritation, or in very rare cases, infection. With proper care and regular follow-ups, injections remain the gold standard in managing wet macular degeneration and helping patients retain as much vision as possible.