What is the most important information I should know about verteporfin?
You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to verteporfin, or if you
have porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous
system).
Before receiving verteporfin, tell your doctor if you have liver or gallbladder disease, or if
you are receiving radiation treatment.
Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when
the medicine is injected.
Verteporfin will make your eyes and your skin more
sensitive to light. After
receiving verteporfin,
you must protect your eyes and skin from natural sunlight and
bright indoor light for at least 5 days..
Wear dark sunglasses and keep all parts of your skin covered with clothing. Sunscreen
will not be effective in protecting you from UV rays during the 5-day period after you have
received verteporfin.
What is verteporfin?
Verteporfin works by enhancing the eye's sensitivity to light. Verteporfin affects
abnormal blood vessels in the eye.
Verteporfin is used together with "photodynamic" laser light therapy to treat blood vessel
disorders in the eye caused by macular degeneration and other eye diseases.
Verteporfin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before I receive verteporfin?
You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to verteporfin, or if you
have porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous
system).
If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely
receive this medication. Before receiving verteporfin, tell your doctor if you have:
FDA pregnancy category C. Verteporfin may be harmful to an
unborn baby. Before you receive verteporfin, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
Verteporfin can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not receive
this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
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