Aflibercept Improved Vision in Premature Infants
A study found that premature infants treated with aflibercept showed better long-term visual outcomes than those receiving laser therapy.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Asthma
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The FIREFLEYE next study confirmed the five-year safety and efficacy of 0.4 mg aflibercept for treating retinopathy of prematurity. Infants who received the treatment achieved higher rates of 20/40 visual acuity compared to those treated with traditional laser photocoagulation.
Why it matters
This research provides critical long-term evidence for an alternative to laser treatment in managing retinopathy of prematurity, potentially reducing the incidence of severe myopia. Parents and clinicians can use these findings to better understand the developmental trajectory of children treated with this medication.
In a 5-year prospective controlled phase 3b study of 98 patients, 92% of children treated with 0.4 mg aflibercept achieved 20/40 vision or better, compared to 75% of children in the laser photocoagulation group.
The players
FIREFLEYE next study
A clinical trial evaluating the long-term effectiveness and systemic safety of aflibercept for managing retinal conditions in infants.
The details
Aflibercept is administered as an injection to manage retinopathy of prematurity by inhibiting factors that drive abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye. Compared to laser photocoagulation, which uses thermal energy to destroy peripheral retinal tissue, this pharmacological approach resulted in significantly lower rates of both high and very high myopia at five years. Importantly, researchers found no evidence that the treatment negatively affected overall neurodevelopment, growth, or systemic health.
Timeline
No disease reactivation occurred by 50 weeks of age.
Visual acuity and systemic safety assessments were completed at 5 years.
Health Landscape
The findings presented at the Euretina congress highlight a transition in pediatric eye care, moving from destructive laser techniques toward targeted medical therapy. This study reinforces the feasibility of using pharmacotherapy to preserve structural and functional vision in premature populations over the long term.
If your child was treated for retinopathy of prematurity, these results offer insight into long-term visual development expectations. Discuss these long-term study outcomes with your pediatric ophthalmologist to understand how they may relate to your child's ongoing eye care and follow-up plan.
The takeaway
Aflibercept therapy demonstrated significant long-term visual benefits for premature infants compared to laser treatment, particularly regarding the reduction of high myopia. Caregivers should maintain consistent follow-up appointments with a specialist to monitor vision and eye health throughout early childhood.
Further reading
For broader context on managing chronic conditions in children, visit our Asthma section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Healio.
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