Visudyne (Verteporfin) is a prescription medication used along with laser light treatment to treat serious eye conditions such as macular degeneration, pathologic myopia, and ocular histoplasmosis. It is also used to prevent decreased vision and blindness. A laser light treatment is used on the affected eyes after a patient receives the injection of verteporfin. The laser light changes the drug to a form that works to destroy the abnormal cells that causes serious eye problem.
Manufacturer Information
The brand name Visudyne comes from Turkey and is manufactured by Novartis. It is available in the strength of 15mg vial.
Side effects may include:
• Blurred vision;
• Constipation;
• Feeling Dizzy;
• Feeling weak;
• Headache;
• Increase in blood pressure;
• Nausea
Serious side effects may include:
• Chest pain;
• Fainting;
• Sweating
Before you use Visudyne, inform your doctor if you are allergic to Verteporfin or if you have any other allergies. You should also talk to your doctor about your medical conditions and about all the medications you are currently taking including OTC and herbal medications. Verteporfin can make you more sensitive to light. Bright lights such as those used in operating rooms and dentist’s offices can activate Verteporfin. You may experience temporary vision changes. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. There may be an interaction between Verteporfin and other medications such as anticlotting medications, beta carotene, radiation therapy, etc.