Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Visudyne (Verteporfin).

Liver function: Visudyne (Verteporfin) may not clear from the body at the expected rate in cases where the liver is not working properly. This increases the risk of experiencing side effects. If you have moderate liver dysfunction, discuss with your doctor how Visudyne (Verteporfin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Visudyne (Verteporfin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Photosensitivity: Visudyne (Verteporfin) can make you more sensitive to light. Avoid exposure of skin or eyes to direct sunlight or bright indoor light for 2 days after receiving Visudyne (Verteporfin). This includes tanning salons, bright halogen lighting, high power lighting (such as those used in dental offices), and light-emitting medical devices.

Exposure to light can cause pain, inflammation, swelling, or discoloration at the injection site. Some people may also develop a rash. If you are going outside, wear protective clothing and dark sunglasses. Sunscreens with ultraviolet protection will not protect against this type of light sensitivity. You may be given a wristband to remind yourself and others that you are light sensitive.

You should not stay in the dark; in fact, you should expose your skin to ambient indoor lighting, since this will help inactivate the medication in the skin through a process called photo bleaching.

Surgery: Bright lights such as those used in operating rooms and dentist's offices can activate Visudyne (Verteporfin). If you are scheduled for surgery or have a dental appointment soon after a treatment with Visudyne (Verteporfin), let your doctor or dentist know that you have received Visudyne (Verteporfin).

Vision: You may experience temporary changes in vision that may affect your ability to drive or use machines. Do not perform these tasks until you determine you can do them safely without any impaired vision. Visudyne (Verteporfin) can also make eyes more sensitive to light (see "Photosensitivity" above).

Pregnancy: Visudyne (Verteporfin) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Visudyne (Verteporfin), contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: Visudyne (Verteporfin) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Visudyne (Verteporfin), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding. You should stop breast-feeding for 96 hours (4 days) after receiving Visudyne (Verteporfin).

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Visudyne (Verteporfin) have not been established for children.