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VEGF-trap fusion protein

Aflibercept [Specialist drug]

Brand names: Eylea, Zaltrap

Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein that acts as a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, used as an intravenous specialist anticancer treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer and, in a separate ophthalmic formulation, for retinal vascular eye disease.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It acts as a soluble decoy receptor that binds VEGF-A, VEGF-B and placental growth factor, preventing them from activating their receptors and inhibiting pathological angiogenesis.

Prescribing in practice

  • It can cause hypertension and serious bleeding, gastrointestinal perforation and impaired wound healing; control blood pressure and suspend treatment around surgery.
  • Proteinuria, arterial and venous thromboembolic events and fistula formation have been reported and may require treatment modification.
  • The intravenous oncology formulation and the intravitreal ophthalmic formulation are distinct and must not be interchanged.

Monitoring

Monitor blood pressure, urinary protein and for signs of bleeding, thromboembolism or gastrointestinal perforation during treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • Attend blood pressure checks and report severe abdominal pain, bleeding or breathlessness urgently.
  • Tell your team about any planned surgery as treatment may need to be paused.
  • Report new or worsening leg swelling or frothy urine.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE technology appraisals address aflibercept in combination chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer.

Reference: NICE TA294/TA305/TA346/TA800; RCOphth; SmPC Eylea/Zaltrap; Confirm identity and dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC) and NICE. Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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