12 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Diabetic Macular Edema and the ILUVIEN implant as a Treatment Option

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An eye condition that can affect those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, diabetic macular edema (DME) can possibly lead to blindness if left untreated. A few of the symptoms for DME include blurred and/or double vision as well as seeing washed out colors.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you may want to talk to your eye doctor who can guide you through your next steps. This article will discuss 12 questions to consider asking when talking with your eye doctor about DME and provide you with insight into the treatment option, ILUVIEN.

1. How does diabetes affect diabetic macular edema (DME)?

High levels of glucose associated with diabetes can cause inflammation and subsequent damage to the blood vessels in the retina. This damage may lead to fluid leakage into the macula which is responsible for central vision. Blood vessels in the eye nourish the retina, but when they leak, the retina begins to swell which may lead to blurred vision.

2. Are there steps I can take to help slow the progression of DME?

Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle with regular exercise and a variety of fruits and vegetables can lower glucose levels and may slow the development and progression of DME. You’ll also want to watch your blood pressure and cholesterol levels as they could be additional risk factors for patients with DME. Make sure to talk with your doctor during your regular appointments as they can give you greater insight into steps to slow the progression of DME.

3. How does recurring DME affect my vision?

Recurring or persistent DME may lead to permanent vision problems such as:

  • Vision loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Trouble seeing at night
  • Double vision
  • Increased eye floaters
  • Loss of peripheral vision

If diagnosed and treated early, these problems can be prevented.

4. What are my options for treating DME and improving my vision?

There are a variety of treatment options for DME. When you talk to your doctor, they may recommend one or more of the following treatments: anti-VEGF therapy, corticosteroids, or laser photocoagulation.

5. I have had diabetes for ___ year(s). Will this affect DME treatment types available to me?

Not everyone who has diabetes will develop DME, but all patients with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing this condition. If diagnosed early, DME can be managed with the right treatments. However, if left untreated, DME can lead to irreversible changes in vision. It’s important to keep your appointments with your eye doctor to best manage your DME.

6. How can I reduce the number of eye injections I currently receive?

Corticosteroids are steroid injections in the eye used to reduce inflammation that causes leaking blood vessels. One treatment, the ILUVIEN implant, is designed to reduce inflammation for up to 3 years with one injection. Some patients may require additional types of treatment to fully manage their DME. Talk with your eye doctor to determine which treatments are best for you.

Please see Important Safety Information at the bottom of the page.

7. How does ILUVIEN work?

ILUVIEN is a microimplant designed to release micro doses of the corticosteroid, fluocinolone acetonide (FAc), into the eye to reduce inflammation and maintain consistent vision for up to 36 months.

8. Can I get ILUVIEN for DME even though I have another eye condition or prior eye surgery?

Talk to your doctor if you have another eye condition or have had prior eye surgeries. They will be able to instruct you on the treatments available to you based on your specific condition. You cannot use ILUVIEN if you have or think you have an infection around the eye or if you have advanced glaucoma.

Please see Important Safety Information at the bottom of the page.

9. What is the procedure for administering ILUVIEN?

Before the in-office procedure, antiseptic and numbing medication will be placed in your eye. Then the physician will inject the microimplant using a specialized injector with a small needle. After you have received ILUVIEN, your physician will schedule periodic follow-up visits to check your eye pressure and follow your condition.

10. What type of payment or insurance coverage is available for ILUVIEN?

ILUVIEN is well covered by most major insurance plans. In addition, AccessPlus Financial Assistance Services can help qualifying patients find payment support. AccessPlus can help in three ways: ILUVIEN CoPay Program, ILUVIEN Patient Assistance Program, and assisting patients in finding payment programs through Independent Financial Assistance Foundations. Be sure to talk to your doctor about a payment plan that works for you.

11. What are the risks and possible side effects associated with ILUVIEN?

You may feel slight pressure during the procedure and some discomfort after the ILUVIEN implant is injected, but this is generally normal and temporary. Risks associated with ILUVIEN include serious eye infection, eye inflammation, increased eye pressure, retinal detachments, glaucoma, cataracts, and implant migration. Make sure to talk with your doctor about these side effects and risks before going through with the procedure.

Please see Important Safety Information at the bottom of the page.

12. What is my follow-up plan after an ILUVIEN injection?

An ILUVIEN injection is designed to last for up to 36 months. Your doctor will want to monitor your condition and assess any symptoms that may arise. Your treatment plan will depend on your condition. Be sure to consult your doctor and attend any follow-up appointments after receiving an ILUVIEN injection.

If you have any questions about ILUVIEN for DME, talk with your doctor and develop a plan to treat your condition. We’re here to help, and you can contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about ILUVIEN.

Alimera Sciences
6310 Town Square, Suite 400
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(678) 990-5740
https://alimerasciences.com/