verteporfin-injectable (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: This medication is not recommended for use if you have the following medical conditions: metabolic disorders causing increased light sensitivity (porphyria). Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, scheduled surgery(s) within 5 days, alcohol use, any allergies. This medication will make you more sensitive to the sun and to bright indoor lights (e.g., halogen lights, tanning salons). Wear protective clothing and dark sunglasses to avoid exposure of the skin and eyes to direct sunlight and/or bright indoor lights for at least 5 days after receiving this medicine. Do not use sunscreens. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil), polymyxin B, "blood thinners" (e.g., aspirin, ticlopidine, warfarin), beta-carotene, mannitol, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). Tell your doctor if you take any medicine that may make you more sensitive to sunlight (increase photosensitivity), especially: tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, tetracycline), sulfa antibiotics (e.g., sulfamethoxazole), phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine), griseofulvin, certain oral diabetes medicine (e.g., sulfonylureas such as glipizide, glyburide), certain "water pills" (e.g., thiazide diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include: light sensitivity lasting longer than 5 days.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Regular eye exams are recommended to evaluate the effectiveness or side effects of this therapy.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) away from light.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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