Faricimab (Vabysmo) is a bispecific antibody drug developed by Genentech, which targets both vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) simultaneously. First approved in the United States in 2022, this drug is mainly used to treat vision impairment caused by various retinal diseases.

Indications of Faricimab (Vabysmo)

Primary Indications

Neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).

Diabetic macular edema (DME).

Macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO).

Applicable Population Characteristics

For patients with nAMD, faricimab is indicated for newly diagnosed, untreated patients.

Usage Restrictions

Patients with ocular or periocular infections.

Patients with active intraocular inflammation.

Patients allergic to faricimab or any of its components.

Dosage Form and Properties of Faricimab (Vabysmo)

Basic Dosage Form Characteristics

Faricimab is a clear to opalescent, colorless to tan solution.

Prefilled syringe: 6 mg (0.05 mL of a 120 mg/mL solution).

Single-dose vial: 6 mg (0.05 mL of a 120 mg/mL solution).

Both dosage forms contain the following excipients: L-histidine (155 mcg), L-methionine (52.2 mcg), polysorbate 20 (20 mcg), sodium chloride (73.1 mcg), sucrose (2.74 mg), and water for injection; the pH is adjusted to 5.5.

Reconstitution Properties

The prefilled syringe is equipped with a 30G × 1/2-inch ultra-thin wall needle with a filter; for the vial dosage form, the supporting 18G × 1½-inch blunt transfer filter needle must be used to withdraw the drug solution, and then replaced with a 30G injection needle for use.

The solution contains no preservatives and should be used immediately after preparation. If immediate use is not possible, it can be stored at room temperature (≤25°C) for a maximum of 4 hours or refrigerated at 2–8°C for 24 hours.

Storage Methods for Faricimab (Vabysmo)

Storage of Unopened Drug

Unopened faricimab should be stored under refrigeration at 2–8°C in its original packaging, protected from freezing and light.

Prefilled syringes must be kept in intact sealed trays, and vials should be stored in an upright position.

Preparation Before Use

Before use, the drug should be removed from the refrigerator and allowed to reach room temperature (20–25°C).

Prefilled syringes can be stored in their original packaging, protected from light, for up to 24 hours.

Before use, check whether the solution is clear; if particles, turbidity, or discoloration are present, the drug must not be used.

Transportation Precautions

During transportation, cold chain conditions of 2–8°C must be maintained to avoid temperature fluctuations and severe vibration.

Any drug exposed to improper temperature conditions should be discarded.