About verteporfin
Light-activated photosensitising agent
Used for
- Photodynamic treatment of certain abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina, including wet age-related macular degeneration.
- Treatment of selected cases of pathologic myopia or presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome.
Usual adult dose
6 mg/m² by intravenous infusion over 10 minutes; activate the medicine with prescribed laser treatment 15 minutes after infusion starts.
Common side effects
- Infusion-site reactions, including pain, swelling, or leakage.
- Visual disturbances, including reduced vision or blurred vision.
- Photosensitivity reactions after exposure to sunlight or bright indoor light.
- Back pain during infusion; occasionally severe.
Important warnings
- Avoid direct sunlight and bright indoor light for 5 days after treatment.
- Protect skin and eyes with clothing and sunglasses if outdoor exposure is unavoidable.
- Avoid extravasation; leaked medicine can cause severe local tissue injury.
- Use caution with severe liver impairment or known porphyria.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy data are limited; potential fetal risk is uncertain. Use only when clearly needed.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether verteporfin passes into breast milk. Consider the medicine’s importance and possible infant exposure.
Interactions
- Photosensitising medicines may increase skin or eye sensitivity to light.
- Some medicines can alter verteporfin uptake or clearance; review all medicines with the treating clinician.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.