Verteporfin-injectable

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your body size and response to treatment.Use precautions to keep the drug from leaking out of the vein while it is being given (extravasation). If leaking occurs, the injection should be stopped and a cold pack/compress should be applied to the affected area. Protect the area from light until swelling and discoloration go away.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 (e.g., 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.)Avoid contact of this medication with the eyes and skin during preparation and handling. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection if you handle this medication. Accidental spills should be wiped up with a damp cloth and disposed of properly.

Injection site reactions (e.g., pain, redness, irritation, swelling), headache, tiredness, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she 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, sweating, eye pain, sudden change in vision.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.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Not applicable.