Verteporfin

Verteporfin is used in photodynamic therapy. It is activated by a laser to seal leaking blood vessels at the back of the eye.

Type of medicine

Light-activated medicine (photodynamic therapy)

Also known as

Visudyne

Comes as

drip into a vein (infusion) with laser treatment to the eye

How you get it

Given in hospital or by a specialist team

What it is used for

Some types of wet age-related macular degeneration (now mostly replaced by anti-VEGF injections)
Abnormal blood vessels caused by severe short-sightedness

Read our guides:

Macular degeneration

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Central serous chorioretinopathy, a condition where fluid builds up under the retina
Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, often with anti-VEGF injections

How it works

Verteporfin is given into a vein and collects in abnormal blood vessels in the eye. A low-power laser then activates it, which closes off the leaking vessels without harming the healthy retina.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Verteporfin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

blurred or abnormal vision
back pain during the infusion
pain or swelling where the drip went in
being sensitive to sunlight for a few days

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

a sudden drop in vision after treatment
severe skin burns if exposed to sunlight or bright light in the first 48 hours

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Avoid direct sunlight and bright indoor light on your skin and eyes for 48 hours after treatment. Cover up and wear dark glasses.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.