Antiangiogenic therapy in Russian ophthalmological practice: achievements, challenges, and solutions

Antiangiogenic therapy has been used in Russian ophthalmology since 2008 and has become a key treatment for a few socially significant diseases, including neovascular age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema. The angiogenesis inhibitor market in Russia is demonstrating qualitative and quantitative growth, with continued positive development trends. This review provides up-to-date information on ophthalmic anti-VEGF drugs registered in the country and discusses specific features of their use. The key factors influencing drug selection for specialists include a long-term safety profile based on real-world data, increased duration of action/ reduced treatment burden, and the potential to improve and maintain visual acuity. Antiangiogenic therapy development trends in Russia are in line with global trends. Currently, the primary focus for improvement is the broader use of second-generation antiangiogenic drugs (including in patients with a suboptimal response to previous therapy). These drugs have the potential to significantly reduce the treatment burden and achieve optimal results in many cases. Along with the evolution of anti-VEGF drugs, approaches to assessing their effectiveness and strategies for rational use are also evolving.