Adult Dosing
Subfoveal Choroidal Neovascularization
- 6 mg/m2 IV over 10 minutes; rate: 3 mL/minute; then use 689 nm wavelength laser light; dose: 50 J/cm2 an intensity of 600 mW/cm2over 83 seconds
- Note: Re-evaluate the patient q3 months; if fluorescein angiography detects choroidal neovascularisation repeat therapy
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established
[Outline]
See Supplemental Patient Information
- In patients who experience severe decrease of vision by
4 lines within 1 week after treatment avoid retreatment at least until complete recovery to baseline levels and until the risk/benefit ratio of subsequent therapy is carefully considered - Incompatible lasers may result incomplete treatment due to partial photoactivation, overdosage due to overactivation or damage to surrounding normal tissue
- After IV administration, avoid exposure of skin or eyes to direct sunlight or bright indoor light for 5 days (severe photosensitivity risk). In an event of extravasation, stop infusion immediately. Protect the extravasation area from direct sunlight until swelling and discoloration have faded. Undertake standard precautions to avoid extravasation.
- Apply cold compresses to the injection site. May administer oral medications for pain relief.
- Within 48 hours of therapy if situation of emergency surgery arise protect as much of the internal tissue as possible from intense light
- Chest pain, syncope, dyspnea, and flushing consistent with complement activation may occur
- Supervise patients during infusion
Cautions: Use cautiously in
- Hepatic impairment (moderate to severe)
- Biliary obstruction
- Concomitant use of CA Channel blockers
- Concomitant use of other agents causing photo sensitivity
Supplemental Patient Information
- Patients should avoid exposure of unprotected skin, eyes or other body organs to direct sunlight or bright indoor light for 5 days
- Patients should not stay in the dark and should be encouraged to expose their skin to ambient indoor light, as it will help inactivate the drug in the skin through a process called photobleaching
- Patients may develop visual disturbances such as abnormal vision, vision decrease, or visual field defects that may interfere with their ability to drive or use machines. Patients should not drive or use machines as long as these symptoms persist
Pregnancy Category:C
Breastfeeding: Safety unknown; potential exists for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants; as per manufacturers data decision should be made for discontinuing nursing or postponing therapy, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
