KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is an investigational medicine given as an injection into the eye to treat certain retina conditions like Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), and Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO).
| Drug class | Anti-VEGF (Investigational) |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Intravitreal Injection |
| Common strength | Per dose |
| Prescription status | Investigational |
What KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is used for
KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is an investigational medicine that belongs to the ‘Retina’ category, specifically as an ‘Anti-VEGF’ agent. It is being studied for its potential to treat several serious eye conditions that affect the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye, crucial for clear vision. Conditions affecting the retina can lead to significant vision loss if not managed properly.
Currently, KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is under investigation for the treatment of:
- Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD): This is a common cause of vision loss in older adults. In Wet AMD, abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula (the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision) and leak fluid or blood, causing damage and blurring central vision.
- Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): This condition affects people with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak fluid into the macula, leading to swelling and blurred vision.
- Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO): This occurs when a vein in the retina becomes blocked, leading to a build-up of blood and fluid. This can cause swelling in the macula and lead to sudden, painless vision loss.
It is important to remember that KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is still in the investigational stage for these uses and is not yet routinely approved or available in India. Your ophthalmologist can discuss approved and available alternatives with you.
How it works
KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) works as an ‘Anti-VEGF’ medicine. VEGF stands for Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor. This is a natural protein in your body that, in certain eye conditions like Wet AMD, DME, and RVO, can contribute to the growth of abnormal, leaky blood vessels and fluid accumulation in the retina. By blocking the action of VEGF, Anti-VEGF medicines aim to reduce the leakage from these abnormal blood vessels, prevent their growth, and help to dry up the excess fluid in the retina.
What makes KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) unique is its mechanism as an ‘Antibody biopolymer conjugate’. This means it is designed to potentially offer ‘extended anti-VEGF durability’. In simpler terms, this medicine is engineered to stay in the eye and work for a longer period compared to some other treatments. The goal of this extended durability is to potentially reduce the frequency of injections needed to manage these chronic eye conditions, which can be a significant benefit for patients.
By targeting VEGF and potentially offering longer-lasting effects, KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) aims to help preserve and improve vision by reducing swelling and preventing further damage to the retina caused by abnormal blood vessels and fluid leakage.
How it’s used
KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is administered as an ‘Intravitreal Injection’. This means the medicine is injected directly into the vitreous humour, which is the jelly-like substance that fills the centre of your eye. This method ensures that the medicine reaches the retina directly and effectively.
It is crucial to understand that this injection must be performed by a highly trained specialist, specifically a ‘retina specialist’, in a sterile clinical environment to minimise any risks. The procedure is typically quick, and your eye will be numbed with anaesthetic drops before the injection to ensure your comfort.
Since KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is an investigational medicine, its ‘dosing’ follows a ‘Trial protocol’. This means the frequency and strength of the injections are determined by the specific guidelines of the clinical trials it is part of. For medicines that are routinely approved, the dosing schedule is clearly defined, but for investigational treatments, it is strictly controlled within the trial framework. You will not encounter a standard ‘per dose’ strength or a fixed schedule outside of a clinical trial setting for this particular medicine at this stage.
It is important to discuss with your ophthalmologist about the specific details of any treatment, especially for investigational medicines, and to understand the procedure and follow-up care involved.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands in India
Hospital-prepared or not marketed as a retail brand in India.
Please note
Given as an injection inside the eye by a retina specialist. After any intravitreal injection, seek help IMMEDIATELY if you develop increasing pain, redness, sensitivity to light or a drop in vision — these can be signs of a serious infection (endophthalmitis). Not currently approved or routinely available in India — included for reference; ask your ophthalmologist about approved alternatives.
Precautions & side effects
As an investigational medicine, KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) comes with specific precautions and a ‘High’ warning level, primarily due to its mode of administration and the nature of intravitreal injections. It is vital for patients to be fully aware of these points.
Key Precautions and Warnings:
- Administered by a Specialist: KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is given as an injection inside the eye by a retina specialist. This is a critical procedure that requires expert hands and a sterile environment to minimise risks.
- Immediate Medical Attention Post-Injection: After any intravitreal injection, including KSI-301 (Tarcocimab), it is extremely important to seek help IMMEDIATELY if you develop any of the following symptoms:
- Increasing pain in the eye
- Increasing redness of the eye
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- A noticeable drop or change in your vision
These symptoms can be signs of a serious infection inside the eye, known as ‘endophthalmitis’. Endophthalmitis is a rare but severe complication that requires urgent medical intervention to prevent significant vision loss. Do not delay in contacting your ophthalmologist or going to an emergency eye care facility if you experience any of these signs.
- Investigational Status: Please remember that KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is an ‘Investigational’ medicine. This means it is not currently approved or routinely available in India for general use. It is included for reference, and patients should ask their ophthalmologist about approved and readily available alternatives for their condition.
- No Standard Prescription: Since it is investigational, there is no standard ‘prescription’ (Rx) for KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) outside of clinical trial protocols.
- No Retail Brands: There are no retail brands for this medicine as it is still under investigation.
Always have an open discussion with your retina specialist about the potential benefits and risks of any treatment, especially for investigational therapies, and ensure you understand all post-procedure care instructions.
Understanding Your Eye Condition: Retina Health
The retina is a delicate, light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of your eye. It works much like the film in a camera, capturing images and sending them to your brain through the optic nerve. A healthy retina is essential for clear, sharp vision. When conditions like Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), or Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) affect the retina, they can significantly impact your ability to see clearly, especially your central vision, which is vital for reading, recognising faces, and driving. These conditions often involve abnormal blood vessel growth or leakage of fluid into the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. Early detection and proper management are key to preserving your eyesight. Regular eye check-ups, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes or a family history of AMD, are crucial. Your ophthalmologist will use various tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography, to diagnose and monitor these conditions.
Living with a retinal condition can be challenging, but many effective treatments are available to help manage these diseases and prevent further vision loss. It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice, attend all scheduled appointments, and report any changes in your vision promptly. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, can also support your overall eye health.
General Advice for Intravitreal Injections and Eye Care
Medicines like KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) are given as intravitreal injections, meaning they are injected directly into the eye. While this might sound daunting, it is a common and effective way to deliver medication directly to the retina. The procedure is performed by a retina specialist in a sterile environment. Before the injection, your eye will be numbed with anaesthetic drops, so you should feel minimal discomfort. You might feel a slight pressure, but generally, the injection itself is quick. After the injection, it’s normal to experience some mild irritation, redness, or a feeling of something in your eye. You might also see small floaters or air bubbles in your vision, which usually resolve within a day or two. It is very important not to rub your eye after the injection. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on post-injection care, which may include using antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection. Follow these instructions carefully.
Maintaining good eye hygiene is always important, especially after any eye procedure. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or applying any eye drops. Avoid swimming or using hot tubs for a few days after the injection to reduce the risk of infection. Store any prescribed eye drops or ointments as directed by your pharmacist, usually in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Never share your eye medicines with anyone else. If you use contact lenses, your doctor will advise you on when it is safe to resume wearing them after an injection.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
While intravitreal injections are generally safe, it is extremely important to be aware of potential complications, however rare. The most serious complication is an infection inside the eye, called endophthalmitis. This requires immediate medical attention. You must contact your ophthalmologist or go to an emergency eye care facility without delay if you experience any of the following symptoms after an intravitreal injection:
- Increasing eye pain: Any new or worsening pain in the injected eye.
- Increasing redness: Significant and worsening redness of the white part of your eye.
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia): Your eye becomes unusually sensitive to light.
- Drop in vision: A noticeable decrease in your vision or new blurring that doesn’t go away.
These symptoms can appear a few hours or even a few days after the injection. Do not wait for your next scheduled appointment if you notice any of these signs. Prompt treatment is critical to prevent severe vision loss from endophthalmitis. Always keep your ophthalmologist’s contact information readily available and ensure you understand when and how to reach them in an emergency.
Frequently asked questions
What is KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) used for?
KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is an investigational medicine being studied for the treatment of certain retina conditions like Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), and Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO). It aims to help manage these conditions that can cause vision loss.
How does KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) work?
KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) works as an Anti-VEGF medicine. It targets and blocks a protein called VEGF, which contributes to the growth of abnormal, leaky blood vessels and fluid buildup in the retina. It is designed as an antibody biopolymer conjugate for extended durability, meaning it may work for a longer period in the eye.
What are the common Indian brands for KSI-301 (Tarcocimab)?
KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is an investigational medicine and does not currently have any approved retail brands in India. It is not routinely available outside of clinical trials.
How is KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) used?
KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is administered as an intravitreal injection, meaning it is injected directly into the eye by a retina specialist. Since it is investigational, its dosing follows a specific trial protocol, and it is not used with a standard dosing schedule outside of a clinical trial.
Do I need a prescription for KSI-301 (Tarcocimab)?
As an investigational medicine, KSI-301 (Tarcocimab) is not routinely available and does not have a standard prescription (Rx) for general use in India. Its use is limited to clinical trial protocols.
What are the key precautions for KSI-301 (Tarcocimab)?
The main precaution for KSI-301 (Tarcocimab), like any intravitreal injection, is to seek immediate medical help if you develop increasing pain, redness, sensitivity to light, or a drop in vision after the injection. These can be signs of a serious infection (endophthalmitis). Also, remember it is an investigational medicine and not currently approved or routinely available in India.
References
- KSI-301: antibody biopolymer conjugate in retinal disorders – PMC
- Diabetic Retinopathy – National Eye Institute
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.