Neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the number one cause of severe vision loss in Canadians over the age of 50. It can rapidly diminish central vision and lead to blindness. But relief’s in sight. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada’s Lucentis (ranibizumab) has been approved for sale after accelerated review by Health Canada. The first treatment clinically proven to offer patients significant vision gains, Lucentis is now under review by the Ontario Drug Benefit Plan, meaning reimbursement may be on the way. Administered by injection to the eye, Lucentis can help restore patients’ central vision, and by extension, independence.
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