Helpful Links
The following sites are suggested "go to" places for vision-, AMD-, and product-related information.*

Vision and General Health Websites
Alliance for Aging Research
www.agingresearch.org
Includes link to "AMD Health Corner," an educational initiative of the Alliance for Aging Research and the National Eye Institute.

American Academy of Ophthalmology
www.aao.org
Includes patient link to Medem, a general eye health library. Lists member ophthalmologists in the U.S. and abroad.

American Optometric Association
www.aoa.org
Includes patient information about eye conditions and diseases, examination procedures, eyewear, and nutrition for healthy vision.

EyeCare America
www.eyecareamerica.org
Sponsored by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Toll-free number for ordering free educational materials. Free eyecare services for individuals who qualify.

Foundation Fighting Blindness
www.blindness.org
Funds research for diseases of the retina. Includes low-vision coping tools, clinical trial information, glossary, personal story videos, chat rooms, and printed materials.

Lighthouse International
www.lighthouse.org
Worldwide organization offering patient education, rehabilitation guidance, research updates, newsletters, and tips for living with low vision.

National Association for the Visually Handicapped
www.navh.org
Helps the "hard of seeing" cope with the psychological effects of visual impairment. Provides low vision services, visual aids, and training to anyone who needs it.

Prevent Blindness America
www.preventblindness.org
Volunteer eye health and safety organization. Information on eye problems, vision testing, safety tips, and volunteer opportunities. Includes Web forum.

Vision Council of America
www.visionsite.org
Professional organization for makers of eyewear and vision care products. Supports public awareness of vision care.

AMD Websites
AMD Alliance International
www.amdalliance.org
Global nonprofit organization offering AMD information, news releases, caregiver handbook, toll-free patient hotline in U.S. and Canada, and links to other vision websites.

American Macular Degeneration Foundation
www.macular.org
Offers printable Amsler grid, news, and health and nutrition tips. Care and Services Directory lists low vision centers, state agencies, vision specialists, vision aids products, and reading services for the visually impaired.

Macula Foundation, Inc.
www.macula.org
Supports research in macular diseases. Links to educational materials, including CD-ROM with large-print booklet.

Macular Degeneration Foundation
www.mdfoundation.com
Linked to eyesight.org. Features frequently asked questions, glossary, news, research updates, electronic newsletter, and links to other low vision resources.

Macular Degeneration Partnership
www.eyesight.org
Includes regional listing of vision-related organizations, "Ask the Doctor" feature, monthly newsletter, low vision product information, AMD toolkit, and other coping tools.

MD Support
www.mdsupport.org
Offers a wealth of news, information about macular degeneration, support services, outreach services, print and video materials.

Schepens Eye Research Institute
www.schepens.harvard.edu
Affiliate of Harvard Medical School; world's largest independent eye research institute. Offers fact sheets, patient liaison contacts, quarterly patient newsletter.

John A. Moran Eye Center
uuhsc.utah.edu/MoranEyeCenter
Treatment and research facility at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Link to "Webvision" tutorial provides detailed information on eye anatomy and function.

*These resources are provided for informational purposes only and are not meant as a substitute for professional medical advice.

Visudyne^® is a treatment to help slow the loss of vision in persons with predominantly classic wet AMD.

Important Safety Information

Visudyne therapy is not for everyone. People who have an abnormal sensitivity to light (a condition called porphyria) and those with allergies to any of the ingredients should not receive Visudyne. (Your doctor has a list of ingredients in Visudyne.) Check with your doctor or healthcare professional to see if you might be allergic to any component of Visudyne therapy. Only your doctor can determine if Visudyne is right for you.

Changes in vision, including blurring, decreased sharpness in vision, and gaps in vision are some of the most commonly reported side effects. Between 1% and 5% of patients experienced a substantial decrease in vision in the first 7 days after treatment, though some patients achieved partial recovery. Patients who experience substantial vision loss should consult their healthcare professional immediately. Injection site reactions and temporary back pain during injection were some of the most commonly reported side effects.

Patients should avoid direct sunlight or bright indoor light for 5 days following therapy with Visudyne.

Patients who have to go outdoors in daylight after treatment must protect all parts of their skin and eyes by wearing protective clothing and dark glasses. Ultraviolet (UV) sunscreens are not effective in protecting against photosensitivity reactions.

Please see full Prescribing Information.