Tepezza (teprotumumab) is a monoclonal antibody medication that received FDA approval in the spring of 2020. It is the only medication proven to permanently improve inflammation, proptosis (bulging eyes), and double vision in patients with thyroid eye disease (TED).
What is Tepezza?
Patient after 2 of 8 doses of Tepezza
What does Tepezza treat?
Tepezza in New Jersey is specifically formulated to treat thyroid eye disease, a condition that causes inflammation and swelling of the eye muscles and tissues. TED can lead to symptoms such as bulging eyes, discomfort, and vision problems. Tepezza can help with the following:
- Swelling and inflammation of the eye muscles and tissues
- Proptosis (bulging of the eyeballs)
- Double vision
- Pain and discomfort around the eyes
- Redness and irritation in the eyes
- Pressure and tightness around the eyes
- Dry eyes associated with TED
- Difficulty moving the eyes smoothly and comfortably
Who is a candidate for Tepezza?
Currently, patients who have active thyroid eye disease and meet specific clinical criteria (clinical activity score >4) are candidates for the drug. Tepezza may work better the earlier you start the drug, so do not delay getting an evaluation! However, Dr. Ramesh is part of ongoing studies for patients who have chronic thyroid eye disease (meaning they have had the disease for > 2 years). Patients may still benefit from being treated even if they have had the disease for years. We encourage an evaluation with Dr. Ramesh to see if Tepezza in New Jersey is right for you.
Generally, you may be a candidate for Tepezza if:
- You have active thyroid eye disease (TED)
- Your clinical activity score (CAS) is greater than 4
- You are experiencing symptoms such as inflammation, proptosis, or double vision
- You do not have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
- You are seeking early intervention or have chronic TED (duration of more than two years)
- You have not responded adequately to other treatments for TED
Dr. Ramesh Speaks About TED Solutions
at the Vision Health Advocacy Coalition
Benefits of Tepezza for TED:
- Offers lasting improvement in inflammation, proptosis, and double vision
- Effective for both newly diagnosed and chronic TED patients
- 90% of patients complete the full course without needing to stop due to side effects
- Non-surgical alternative to traditional interventions for TED
- Reduces symptoms that significantly impact daily activities
- Administered by experienced specialists like Dr. Ramesh
Patient after 4 of 8 doses of Tepezza
What is Dr. Ramesh's experience with Tepezza?
Dr. Ramesh was involved in the initial research for this medication prior to FDA approval, both at UCLA and in his private practice at Wills Eye Hospital. He has experience treating patients with this drug locally and in collaboration with other physicians for those who travel from a distance.
Dr. Ramesh was also selected as one of the world experts in the administration and treatment of thyroid eye disease with Tepezza by Horizon Therapeutics, the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Tepezza. In this role, Dr. Ramesh educates surgeons, endocrinologists, and primary eye care providers in the early diagnosis and management of thyroid eye disease.
Patient with reduction in periorbital fat after just 1 of 8 doses of Tepezza
Are there ongoing research trials?
Yes, Dr. Ramesh is involved in ongoing research with Tepezza in New Jersey. Please contact our office to see if you are qualified for any research trials. We are engaged in research for all aspects of thyroid eye disease, including epidemiology, medical management, Tepezza, and surgical treatment.
Does insurance cover Tepezza?
Tepezza can be covered by health insurance for many patients. This depends on your medical history, severity of disease, and health insurance. Please contact our office to see if medical insurance would cover Tepezza for you.
Tepezza FAQs
What are the common side effects of Tepezza?
Tepezza is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects include high blood sugar, muscle spasms, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and gastrointestinal upset. It is not recommended for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis). Dr. Ramesh can also provide alternative dosing regimens to help minimize side effects. 90% of patients who start Tepezza can finish the treatment without having to stop due to other side effects.
How is Tepezza administered?
Tepezza in New Jersey is administered via intravenous (IV) infusion. The treatment involves an initial infusion followed by additional infusions every three weeks for a total of eight infusions over six months.
How long does it take to see results with Tepezza treatment?
Patients may begin to notice improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks of starting Tepezza treatment. The full course of treatment spans approximately six months, with continuous monitoring to assess progress.
Why Choose Dr. Ramesh for Tepezza?
Dr. Ramesh has extensive experience with Tepezza, having been involved in its initial research at UCLA and his private practice at Wills Eye Hospital. Selected by Horizon Therapeutics as a global expert in Tepezza administration and TED treatment, Dr. Ramesh educates surgeons, endocrinologists, and eye care providers on early diagnosis and management. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Ramesh to determine your candidacy for Tepezza in New Jersey.
Schedule an
Appointment
BOOK NOW
Contact Us
The Center for Eye and Facial Plastic Surgery
35 Clyde Road, #104
Somerset, NJ 08873
Monday – Friday: 8:30a – 4:30p
Livingston Office
22 Old Short Hills Rd Suite 202
Livingston, NJ 07039
Monday: 9:00a – 5:00p
Tuesday: 12:00p – 7:00p
Wednesday – Friday: 9:00a – 5:00p
P: (609) 608-0142
F: (855) 644-0469
