Vabysmo
(faricimab-svoa)

Targeted Conditions

Vabysmo is FDA-approved for the treatment of:

  • Neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD)
  • Diabetic macular edema (DME)

These conditions are leading causes of vision loss and blindness due to abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage in the retina.

Off-Label Usage

Off-label use of Vabysmo is limited, but may include other retinal vascular conditions, such as:

  • Retinal vein occlusion (RVO)
  • Myopic choroidal neovascularization

Use outside approved indications should only be considered by retinal specialists on a case-by-case basis.

Drug Classification Overview

Vabysmo is a bispecific monoclonal antibody that targets two key pathways: VEGF-A (vascular endothelial growth factor A) and Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2). By inhibiting both, it reduces abnormal blood vessel formation and leakage in the retina, improving vision outcomes. It is the first and only FDA-approved treatment with this dual-action mechanism.

Manufacturer in the USA, Mexico, and Canada

USA: Genentech (a member of the Roche Group)
Mexico: Roche México, S.A. de C.V.
Canada: Roche Canada / Hoffmann-La Roche Limited

Available Strengths and Dosage Forms – United States, Mexico, and Canada

Country Comparison – United States vs Mexico and Canada

Vabysmo is available in all three countries, though access and availability may vary depending on national formularies, reimbursement programs, and pharmacy networks. Canada and Mexico offer cost savings while maintaining full regulatory approval via Health Canada and COFEPRIS, respectively.

Average Retail Price (Monthly Treatment) USA vs Mexico vs Canada

Canada: ~30–45% savings vs. U.S. retail prices
Mexico: ~25–40% savings vs. U.S. retail prices

(Savings may vary depending on availability, cold chain requirements, regulatory classification, and market fluctuations.)

Where to Buy USA

Vabysmo is available through retina clinics, ophthalmology specialists, and:

  • Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy
  • CVS Specialty
  • OptumRx
  • Accredo
  • Costco
  • Kroger
  • Albertsons
  • Publix
  • Walmart
  • Sam’s Club
  • Target (via CVS)
  • Online mail-order specialty care pharmacies

Key Benefits

  • Dual inhibition of VEGF-A and Ang-2 for improved retinal stability
  • Reduces abnormal blood vessel growth and retinal fluid leakage
  • May require fewer injections than other anti-VEGF therapies (up to 16-week intervals)
  • Improves visual acuity in both nAMD and DME
  • FDA, COFEPRIS, and Health Canada approved
  • Cold chain and specialty distribution support available

(Note: Availability may be limited to clinics or practices with specialty distribution agreements.)

Storage Requirements

  • Vabysmo must be stored in refrigerated conditions at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. It must be protected from light and kept in its original packaging until use. Cold chain logistics are strictly required during transportation and delivery.

Shipping from Canada

This medication is accessed through fully licensed Canadian pharmacies regulated by Health Canada. All pharmacies included in the MedicalMex network undergo a rigorous review and verification process to ensure compliance with national standards, patient safety, and medication authenticity.

MedicalMex facilitates:

  • Prescription verification and fulfillment coordination
  • Secure, compliant medication logistics
  • Access to licensed Canadian pharmacists
  • Access to our network of certified physicians if a Telehealth consultation is needed
  • Case management, payment handling, and personalized boutique-level support
  • Cold chain shipping with next-generation temperature-monitored coolers, when required
  • Refill tracking and patient adherence programs

You are working directly with MedicalMex Inc., a U.S.-based company that helps eligible patients safely access affordable medications from Canada — with compliance and full-service concierge support at every step.

Buying from Mexico

This medication is also available through certified pharmacies in Mexico regulated by COFEPRIS (Mexico’s national health authority). All partners in the MedicalMex network must pass a rigorous review and certification process before being approved for patient access.

MedicalMex facilitates:

  • Transportation support to our affiliate clinic in Tijuana, Mexico
  • Prescription handling through licensed physicians within our certified network
  • Access to our network of accredited physicians if a Telehealth consultation is needed
  • Travel coordination, including flights and/or hotel reservations when required
  • Travel insurance
  • Cold chain shipping with advanced temperature-monitored coolers, when applicable
  • Personalized, boutique-level service
  • Refill tracking and patient adherence support

You are working directly with MedicalMex Inc., a U.S.-based company that manages every detail — from medical and travel logistics to prescription compliance — providing secure, affordable access to life-saving medications from Mexico.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Conjunctival hemorrhage
  • Eye pain
  • Floaters
  • Increased intraocular pressure (IOP)
  • Blurred vision

Less common but serious effects:

  • Retinal detachment
  • Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
  • Retinal vasculitis
  • Inflammation inside the eye
  • Hypersensitivity reactions

Patients should report any sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or redness immediately to their retina specialist.

Warnings and Precautions

  • Administered only by trained ophthalmic professionals under sterile conditions
  • Monitor for signs of intraocular inflammation or infection after each injection
  • Not recommended during pregnancy unless essential
  • Caution in patients with recent cardiovascular or thromboembolic events
  • May cause temporary visual disturbances — driving and machinery use should be avoided post-injection
  • Hypersensitivity to faricimab or formulation components is a contraindication

Alternative Medications (by Indication)

For nAMD and DME:
Eylea (aflibercept)
Lucentis (ranibizumab)
Avastin (bevacizumab, off-label)

For DME:
Ozurdex (dexamethasone intravitreal implant)
Iluvien (fluocinolone implant)
Consultation with a retina specialist is required to determine suitability.

Medication FAQs

Vabysmo is used to treat neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema, two serious retinal diseases that can cause vision loss.
It is given by intravitreal injection (into the eye) by a retina specialist in a sterile clinical setting.
After the initial loading doses, many patients can extend their treatment intervals to every 8–16 weeks, depending on response.
It is the first and only medication that blocks both VEGF-A and Angiopoietin-2, potentially offering more stable retinal outcomes with fewer injections.
Coverage varies. In the U.S., many commercial and Medicare plans may cover it. MedicalMex offers affordable access from Canada and Mexico for patients without coverage.
Yes. A valid prescription from a licensed physician is required. We can assist with prescription handling through our certified network.
Yes. Vabysmo requires cold chain storage and shipping. MedicalMex uses next-generation temperature-controlled packaging for safe delivery.
Yes. We offer travel support to our affiliated Tijuana clinic, including lodging, medical coordination, and prescription handling.
Always consult your retina specialist or prescribing physician. MedicalMex does not provide medical advice but can connect you to licensed professionals.