Strokes and anti-VEGF injections

Since 2006 when we started using anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), Retina Specialists were always worried that even injecting tiny amounts into the eye can spill over to the circulation and cause increased chance of atherothrombotic events (ATE's). A recent study from the Mayo Clinic showed no increased incidence of stroke, heart attack and death in patients receiving anti-VEGF medications, versus those who did not receive the drug.

We can now tell patients confidently, that although these things can happen, but these are not attributable to the medications. We can thank the group of Lauren Dalvin MD et al for publishing their report in JAMA Ophthalmol.2019;137(5):483-490.doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2018.6891.