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porfimer sodium - injection, Photofrin

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GENERIC NAME: PORFIMER SODIUM - INJECTION (POR-fi-mer SO-dee-um)

BRAND NAME(S): Photofrin

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used along with laser light treatment to treat certain esophagus problems (cancer, Barrett's esophagus) and a certain type of lung cancer (endobronchial non-small-cell type). It works by making the cancer cells sensitive to the laser light treatment, causing the cells to die.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Learn all preparation and usage instructions for this product. Follow all instructions for proper mixing with the correct IV fluid. Do not mix porfimer sodium with other medications in the same solution. Shake the product well until dissolved. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Use the medication immediately after mixing. Protect the drug from bright light by covering with foil or a dark sleeve. If you have questions about the preparation or use of this medication, consult the doctor or pharmacist.Avoid getting the medication in the eyes or on the skin while preparing or using this medication. It may cause the eyes/skin to become sensitive to bright light. Tell your doctor immediately if you get the medication in your eyes or on your skin.The dosage is based on your weight. This medication is usually given 2 days (40 to 50 hours) before the laser light treatment or as directed by your doctor. Extra laser light treatments may be given as directed by your doctor.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, diarrhea, coughing, nausea, vomiting, or eye sensitivity to light (including car headlights) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist 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 immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: pain/swelling at injection site, skin reactions due to sun/bright light (e.g., swelling, blistering, redness), trouble swallowing, chest pain, swelling ankles/feet, shortness of breath, mental/mood changes (e.g., anxiety), stomach/abdominal pain, signs of infection (e.g., fever), unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat.Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: coughing/vomiting blood, trouble breathing.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice any 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.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.