Visudyne

Information about Visudyne

Visudyne is a medication used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of certain eye conditions, specifically age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other retinal diseases. It works by being activated by light to damage and reduce abnormal blood vessels in the eye that are contributing to vision loss.

Product Highlights

• This is a condition where abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid or blood, leading to vision loss. Visudyne helps by targeting and closing these abnormal blood vessels to slow the progression of the disease.
• Visudyne may also be used in the treatment of other retinal conditions involving abnormal blood vessel growth, such as choroidal neovascularization.

Key Ingredient

• Verteporfin

Key Benefits

• Visudyne helps slow the progression of vision loss caused by wet AMD and other retinal diseases by targeting and treating abnormal blood vessel growth.
• The treatment involves an intravenous injection followed by a light-based activation procedure, which is less invasive than surgical alternatives.
• By targeting the leaking blood vessels, Visudyne can prevent further damage to the retina and preserve vision.
• It can be used in conjunction with other treatments for retinal diseases, providing a comprehensive approach to managing eye conditions.

Direction of Use

• Visudyne is administered through an intravenous (IV) injection by a healthcare professional. The dose is typically based on the patient's weight.
• After the IV injection, the patient is exposed to a low-energy laser light that activates Visudyne in the targeted area of the retina. The light exposure typically lasts for about 83 seconds.
• Treatments are usually given at intervals, depending on the condition being treated and the response to the therapy. A healthcare provider will determine the appropriate schedule for each individual patient.
• Patients are often asked to avoid direct sunlight for a period (usually 48 hours) after treatment to prevent skin sensitivity reactions.

Safety Concerns

• Since Visudyne is activated by light, patients may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight and other bright lights. They should avoid direct exposure to sunlight for at least 48 hours after treatment.
• Some patients may experience reactions at the site of the IV injection, including redness, swelling, or pain.
• Temporary vision changes, such as blurred vision, can occur due to the treatment procedure.
• Because Visudyne is metabolized in the liver, patients with liver disease may need to be monitored for potential complications.
• There can be a risk of retinal damage or complications if the laser light exposure is not properly targeted, so the procedure should be performed by trained professionals.
• Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the medication, which can include rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.

Avoid Visudyne If

• Do not use Visudyne if you are allergic to verteporfin or any of the other ingredients in the formulation.
• Visudyne should not be used during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as its safety has not been established. It should also be avoided while breastfeeding.
• Patients with severe liver disease should avoid Visudyne, as liver impairment can affect the medication’s metabolism.
• If you have a condition that makes you highly sensitive to sunlight, you should avoid using Visudyne.
• If you have certain eye conditions, such as retinal diseases other than those specified for treatment with Visudyne, consult your doctor before use to determine if it's appropriate.