Information for the public
Faricimab (Vabysmo) is available on the NHS as a possible treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in adults if, in the eye being treated:
- the best possible visual acuity after correction with glasses or contact lenses is between 6/12 and 6/96
- there is no permanent damage to the central fovea (the part of the eye that helps people to see things in sharp detail)
- the area affected by AMD is no larger than 12 times the size of the area inside the eye where the optic nerve connects to the retina
- there are signs that the AMD has been getting worse.
Treatment should be stopped if a person’s vision gets worse and there are changes inside the eye which show that treatment isn’t working.
If you are not eligible for faricimab but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Macular Society, 0300 3030 111
- Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), 0303 123 9999
- Fight for Sight, 020 7264 3900
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-4659-4
This page was last updated: