Verteporfin is used along with laser light treatment to
treat certain serious eye conditions (such as macular degeneration,
pathologic myopia, ocular histoplasmosis). It is used to help prevent
decreased vision and blindness. After you have received the injection of
verteporfin, your doctor will use laser light treatment on the affected
eye(s). The laser light will change the drug to a form that works by
damaging only those cells that cause the serious eye
problem.
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a
health care professional as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on
your body size and response to treatment.
Your doctor will treat your affected eye with laser
light about 15 minutes after you receive this medication. If you have any
questions about the treatment, consult your doctor.
Wear a wristband for 5 days after receiving this drug to
notify other health care professionals that you have received this drug and
to remind you to avoid bright lights (such as halogen lights) and direct
sunlight. However, do not stay in totally dark areas after treatment. You
should expose your skin to regular indoor/indirect light because doing so
will help stop any drug in your skin from causing damage to skin cells. If
any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor. (See also
Precautions section.)
Injection site reactions (such as pain, redness,
irritation, swelling), headache, tiredness, or blurred vision may occur. If
any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- chest pain
- fainting
- eye pain
- sudden change in vision
- severe pain/swelling at injection site
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- flushing
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to verteporfin; or if you have any other
allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause
allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- a certain metabolic disorder (porphyria)
- liver disease
This medication will make you more sensitive to the sun
and to bright indoor lights. Avoid sun exposure, halogen lights,
high-powered indoor lighting used in operating rooms/dental offices,
tanning booths, and sunlamps for at least 5 days after receiving this
medication. Wear protective clothing and dark sunglasses when outdoors.
Sunscreens will not provide protection.
This drug may cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use
machinery, or do anything that needs clear vision until you can do it
safely.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products). It is recommended that you avoid
surgery/dental procedures for at least 5 days after receiving a dose of
verteporfin.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk and may have
undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended
while using this medication. Consult your doctor before
breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Your doctor will schedule periodic eye exams to monitor
your progress or check for side effects.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and
will not be stored at home.
