The present invention provides methods for treating or preventing diabetic retinopathy, e.g., nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy, by sequentially administering multiple doses of a VEGF antagonist to a patient. The methods of the present invention include the administration of a 2 mg aflibercept by intravitreal injection q8 weeks after three or five initial monthly doses (2q8) or 2 mg q16 weeks after three initial monthly doses and one 8-week interval (2q16). Moreover, the present invention provides methods for reversing or halting the progression NPDR to PDR (e.g., such that the DRSS is reduced by 2 or 3 levels) or preventing the occurrence or reoccurrence of a vision threatening complication by administering aflibercept according to the dosing regimens set forth herein.
