Authors' objectives: To assess the available evidence on the efficacy, safety and coverage policy related aspects regarding the use of intravitreal glucocorticoids in patients with conditions of the posterior retina.

Authors' recommendations: Evidence of moderate quality suggests that the use of intravitreal glucocorticoids might be similarly effective, and in some cases, less effective than the antiangiogenic therapy (aflibercept, bevacizumab, ranibizumab) or laser in diabetic macular edema and retinal vein occlusion and systemic therapy in non-infectious uveitis. Its use is also associated to a higher risk of cataract and increase in ocular hypertension. Its main advantage would be fewer injections. That is why clinical practice guidelines and coverage policies usually consider its use only as an option for patients with diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusion or non-infectious uveitis refractory to other therapies or when other therapies cannot be used. The United States health sponsors surveyed consider the use of dexamethasone implant or fluocinolone implant in compliance with certain requirement. In contrast, Australian government does not cover it.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2016

URL for published report: www.iecs.org.ar/home-ets/

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Argentina

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy

Contact Address: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 2024, Buenos Aires - Argentina, C1414 CABA

Contact Name: info@iecs.org.ar

Contact Email: info@iecs.org.ar

Copyright: <p>Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS)</p>