Indications 

Visudyne is used in conjunction with photodynamic therapy (PDT), which uses laser light, to treat eye blood vessel disorders caused by specific eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), pathologic myopia, or presumed ocular histoplasmosis in patients. 

Visudyne is a light-activated medication. Following intravenous administration, laser light transforms the drug into a form that selectively targets and damages the cells responsible for severe eye conditions, thus aiding in the prevention of vision loss and blindness. 

Uses and Dosage 

Visudyne is usually administered by a doctor in a clinical or hospital setting through a slow intravenous injection, with the IV infusion lasting at least 10 minutes. 

Inform your healthcare providers if you experience any sensations of burning, discomfort, or swelling near the IV needle during the administration of Visudyne. 

Following the administration of this medication, your doctor will utilize laser light to treat your affected eye after approximately 15 minutes. If you have any inquiries about the procedure, seek guidance from your doctor. 

After receiving Visudyne, protect your eyes from natural sunlight and bright indoor light for at least 5 days. Optimal protection can be achieved by wearing dark sunglasses whenever you are outside or in well-lit indoor spaces. 

Avoid remaining in complete darkness indoors, as this may prolong the drug’s activity in your body. Instead, opt for ambient indoor lighting, like indirect sunlight through windows or low-wattage incandescent bulbs, and avoid spaces with halogen or fluorescent lighting. 

Your doctor will assess your eyes three months after verteporfin and PDT therapy to determine if further treatment is necessary. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Visudyne. Promptly inform your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Minor vision alterations, such as seeing flashes of light 
• Dry eyes 
• Eyelid redness, swelling, or itching 
• Headache or feelings of weakness and fatigue 
• Mild skin itching or rash 
• Occasional constipation or nausea 
• Joint discomfort or muscle weakness 
• Experiencing fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms 
• Pain, swelling, bleeding, or itching at the injection site 

Serious Side Effects 

• Significant vision loss 
• Sudden and intense pain 
• Severe eye redness or discoloration 
• Eye pain or perceiving halos around lights 
• Sensation of nearly fainting 
• Chest discomfort 
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling sensation) 

Inform your doctor immediately if any of the serious side effects above are experienced. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Visudyne may trigger a serious allergic response. Seek immediate medical help if you observe any indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Sweating 
• Dizziness 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Not all side effects of Visudyne are included in this list. Inform your doctor of any new side effects that may occur. 

Cautions 

Before undergoing treatment with Visudyne, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to verteporfin. 

Consult your doctor for additional information about Visudyne, as it may contain inactive ingredients that can potentially trigger allergic reactions or other issues. 

To ensure Visudyne is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of liver disease or porphyria (metabolic disorder). 

Visudyne can potentially interact with other drugs, such as prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Ensure to inform all your healthcare providers about the medicines you are taking, and any medication regimen changes. 

The use of Visudyne may lead to vision issues. Refrain from driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication impacts you. 

Visudyne can increase sensitivity to sunlight and bright indoor lights. Avoid sun exposure, halogen lights, high-powered indoor lighting commonly found in operating rooms and dental offices, tanning booths, and sunlamps for a minimum of 5 days after taking this medication. When outdoors, wear protective clothing and dark sunglasses, as sunscreen will not offer sufficient protection. 

The potential effects of Visudyne on an unborn baby are uncertain. If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant while using this medication, inform your doctor. 

Breastfeeding should be avoided during the use of Visudyne as its active ingredient, verteporfin, can be transmitted through breast milk and potentially cause harm to the nursing baby.