What is Jetrea® injection used for?
Prior to being discontinued, Jetrea therapy was a treatment for retinal conditions involving abnormal pulling of fibers on the retina. Usually due to ageing, fibers which normally lie on the surface of the retina begin to pull on the retina causing a loss of vision. The treatment involved the injection of medication into the eye to cause of release of traction (pulling) on the retina. It may take weeks to months for Jetrea to take effect.
How effective is Jetrea therapy?
In vitreomacular traction syndrome about 40% of cases improve when the traction is limited. In macular hole cases, successful closure of the hole is seen within six months in as many as 60% of eyes with small holes. Please refer to separate literature on these conditions.
What are the risks of Jetrea therapy?
Severe complications are very rare, but risks of Jetrea injection include bleeding, infection, inflammation, glaucoma, dislocation of lens, retinal detachment, cataract, and loss of vision/loss of the eye. A common side effect of treatment is the appearance of new floaters in the vision. Less than one percent of injections are associated with sudden decreased vision for unknown reasons. Fortunately, the vision returns in most cases within a two week period. About 2% of eyes injected with Jetrea experience a yellow tint in the vision which usually clears with time. Currently, it does not appear that Jetrea has any significant systemic adverse effects. However, pregnancy should be avoided while on Jetrea therapy.
What do I expect after a Jetrea injection?
If a patch is placed on the eye, keep it on as directed by the doctor, usually 3-4 hours. You may be given eye drops and instructions on how to use them. Physical activity is not limited after the injection. Tylenol or Ibuprofen may be used if there is discomfort, but severe pain should be reported to your doctor without delay. It is normal to experience a red area on the white of the eye, which disappears in one to two weeks. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the office. If Jetrea is not successful, vitrectomy surgery may be considered.
Note: Since June 30, 2020, Jetrea stopped being manufactured.
For a telemedicine consultation with Dr Pautler, please send email request to spautler@rvaf.com. We accept Medicare and most insurances in Florida. Please include contact information (including phone number) in the email. We are unable to provide consultation for those living outside the state of Florida with the exception of limited one-time consultations with residents of the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Minnesota, and Washington.
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