Aflibercept 8 mg treat-and-extend pathway for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration: guidance from a UK expert panel

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Therapies with robust visual outcomes and reduced patient and healthcare system treatment burden are needed amidst the rising incidence of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Aflibercept 8 mg is an additional treatment option with demonstrated potential for extended dosing intervals of up to 24 weeks. The objective of this publication is to introduce a clinical care pathway, developed by expert consensus of experienced UK clinicians, to support best practice with aflibercept 8 mg in nAMD. METHODS: A structured, face-to-face roundtable meeting of 13 UK retina specialists was held on 8 October 2024, organised and funded by Bayer. The expert panel reached consensus following review of key clinical trial data and consideration of current NHS clinical practice to provide guidance on the use of intravitreal aflibercept 8 mg in nAMD. RESULTS: The panel provided recommendations for an aflibercept 8 mg treat-and-extend pathway for both treatment-naïve and previously treated patients with nAMD. Criteria were developed to guide dosing interval extension, reduction or maintenance based on visual acuity and optical coherence tomography imaging. More detailed guidance includes considerations for switching treatments to or from aflibercept 8 mg, monitoring, and discontinuing treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Aflibercept 8 mg may offer opportunities for longer treatment intervals and reduced patient and clinic burden compared with first-generation agents. The proposed treatment pathway is practical and accounts for variability in healthcare structures and capacity pressures, providing clinicians with flexibility in implementing these recommendations while addressing patient needs.