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verteporfin - injection, Visudyne

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GENERIC NAME: VERTEPORFIN - INJECTION (ver-teh-POR-fin)

BRAND NAME(S): Visudyne

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

USES: Verteporfin is used along with laser light treatment to treat certain serious eye conditions (e.g., macular degeneration, pathologic myopia, ocular histoplasmosis). It is used to help prevent decreased vision and blindness. After you have received the injection of verteporfin, your doctor will use laser light treatment on the affected eye(s). The laser light will change the drug to a form that works by damaging only those cells that cause the serious eye problem.

HOW TO USE: Read and learn all preparation and usage instructions supplied by the manufacturer. Follow all instructions for proper mixing with the correct IV fluids. Consult your pharmacist for details. Before using, check the product visually for particles or discoloration. The solution should be a dark green color. If you notice a different color or if there are particles in the solution, do not use the liquid.This medication is given by injection into a vein 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, stop giving the injection and apply a cold pack/compress 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.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist for details.

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