Why is this medication prescribed?

Visudyne is prescribed for a specific type of treatment known as photodynamic therapy (PDT). It is primarily used to treat certain eye conditions, including:

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Visudyne is indicated for the treatment of predominantly classic subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) due to AMD. CNV involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula, the central part of the retina. These abnormal vessels can lead to vision loss.
• Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization (mCNV): Visudyne is also used to treat myopic choroidal neovascularization, a condition in which abnormal blood vessels grow in the choroid, leading to vision problems in individuals with high myopia (nearsightedness).

The active component in Visudyne is verteporfin, which is a photosensitizing agent. The treatment involves injecting Visudyne into the bloodstream and then using laser light to activate the drug in the abnormal blood vessels of the eye. This activation process helps close off the abnormal blood vessels and slow the progression of the underlying eye conditions, thereby preserving vision.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s an overview of how Visudyne is used:

• Administration: Visudyne is not taken orally like many other medications. Instead, it is administered intravenously (through a vein in your arm) as a solution.
• Photosensitization: After the drug is injected, it circulates through the body and is selectively absorbed by abnormal blood vessels in the eye.
• Activation with Light: The next step involves shining a low-energy laser light into the eye. The Visudyne in the abnormal blood vessels is activated by this light, causing a reaction that damages the unwanted blood vessels while sparing normal tissue.
• Treatment Duration: The duration of the light exposure is carefully controlled during the procedure. The light activation, along with the drug, helps to close off the abnormal blood vessels and slow the progression of the eye condition.

It’s important to note that Visudyne therapy is a specific treatment for certain types of eye conditions and is not a cure. The goal is to slow down the progression of the disease and preserve vision.

The exact treatment plan, including the number of sessions required, will be determined by your eye care professional based on the severity of your condition and your individual response to the therapy.

It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions closely and attend all scheduled appointments for the treatment to be effective. If you have been prescribed Visudyne or are considering this treatment, discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your eye care provider. They can provide you with personalized information based on your specific situation.

Other uses for this medicine

Visudyne (verteporfin) is primarily used for photodynamic therapy to treat certain eye conditions, particularly age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV). However, it’s essential to note that Visudyne is not approved or indicated for other uses outside of these specific eye conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

As with any medication, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions and take note of any special precautions. Here are some general precautions associated with the use of Visudyne:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies or hypersensitivity reactions you may have, especially to verteporfin or any other components of the Visudyne solution.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Visudyne with your doctor. The effects of Visudyne during pregnancy and breastfeeding are not well-studied, so caution is advised.
• Photosensitivity: Since Visudyne involves light activation, it’s important to be aware of potential photosensitivity reactions. After receiving the injection, your skin and eyes may become more sensitive to light. It is recommended to avoid exposure to direct sunlight or bright indoor light for at least 5 days after the injection. Protect your eyes and skin with appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen during this period.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any herbal supplements or vitamins you are taking. Some medications may interact with Visudyne, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Eye Examinations: Regular follow-up eye examinations are typically necessary to monitor the progress of the treatment and assess the condition of your eyes. Attend all scheduled appointments and communicate any changes in your vision or any concerns to your eye care professional.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns you may have regarding the use of Visudyne. Adhering to your doctor’s recommendations and attending regular check-ups is crucial for the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are usually no specific dietary restrictions associated with Visudyne. However, maintaining a healthy diet is generally beneficial for overall health, including eye health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose:

• Since Visudyne is administered as part of a photodynamic therapy session rather than taken as a daily medication, the concept of forgetting a dose doesn’t apply in the traditional sense.
• However, it is crucial to attend all scheduled appointments for your photodynamic therapy sessions. If you miss an appointment, contact your healthcare provider promptly to reschedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Visudyne (verteporfin) used in photodynamic therapy for certain eye conditions can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Some common side effects of Visudyne include:

• Photosensitivity: After receiving the Visudyne injection, patients become sensitive to light. This can cause reactions such as:
  • Skin sensitivity: Redness, swelling, or rash may occur on the skin exposed to light.
  • Eye sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light, blurred vision, or other vision changes.
• Infusion-Related Reactions: Some individuals may experience reactions related to the infusion of Visudyne, including:
  • Nausea
  • Back pain
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Chills
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, swelling, or discoloration at the injection site can occur.
• Visual Disturbances: Transient visual disturbances, including blurred vision, may occur during or after treatment.
• Other: Other less common side effects may include abdominal pain, respiratory symptoms, and changes in blood pressure.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, since Visudyne involves photosensitivity, it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team regarding protecting your skin and eyes from light exposure for a specified period after the injection.

Keep in mind that the benefits of Visudyne in treating certain eye conditions generally outweigh the potential risks of side effects. Your healthcare provider will discuss these potential side effects with you before the treatment and will monitor your condition during and after the therapy.

If you experience any concerning side effects or have questions about your treatment, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide personalized information based on your medical history and individual response to the treatment.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage:
  • Visudyne is typically administered in a healthcare setting, and the storage is the responsibility of the medical facility.
  • If you are provided with any unused vials or materials at home, store them as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Disposal:
  • Proper disposal of medical waste is crucial. Do not dispose of Visudyne vials, used needles, or any medical waste in regular household trash.
  • Follow local regulations and guidelines for the disposal of medical waste. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide specific instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of an emergency or suspected overdose, contact your local emergency services or poison control center immediately. In the context of Visudyne, an overdose is unlikely since it is administered as part of a controlled photodynamic therapy session. However, if you have concerns or experience severe unexpected symptoms after the treatment, seek immediate medical attention.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-Up Care: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor the progress of your eye condition and the effectiveness of the Visudyne therapy.
• Informing Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your Visudyne treatment, including your eye care specialist and any other physicians.
• Photoprotection: Adhere to instructions regarding photoprotection. Protect your skin and eyes from direct sunlight and bright indoor light for the specified period after receiving the Visudyne injection.
• Medical History: Keep your healthcare provider informed about your complete medical history, including any allergies, medications, and previous reactions to medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Visudyne with your healthcare provider.
• Vision Changes: Be aware of any changes in your vision and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and seek their guidance for any specific concerns or questions you may have about your Visudyne treatment. This information is general in nature, and individual circumstances may vary.