Visudyne® (verteporfin for injection) therapy for wet AMD

For US Residents Only

About AMD
AMD Warning Signs
Treating AMD
Visudyne
Support for Low Vision
Caregiving
Common Questions
Helpful Resources

One of the things you can do to increase your chances of detecting AMD at an early stage––or slowing its progress if you already have AMD––is to conduct a daily self-test using an Amsler grid. An Amsler grid looks like a pattern of crossing straight lines—it’s a tool that lets you check changes in your vision.

Here's how changes might distort the appearance of an Amsler grid*:

And here's what those changes might look like in everyday life*:

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Here's how to conduct the Amsler grid test:

Either hold the grid at a normal reading distance or tape it to a door or mirror
Cover one eye and look at the center dot on the grid (you can use your reading glasses during the test)
Now cover the other eye and repeat the test

If you noticed that the straight lines in the chart pattern look wavy or that some of the lines are missing, you may have symptoms of AMD.

Self-testing with an Amsler grid must be done correctly in order to detect worsening AMD. See your ophthalmologist or retinal specialist to be sure you are conducting the self-test properly and for regular eye exams.

*The above artist's representations may not depict all patient situations.

Is Visudyne for me?

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.

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 ophthalmologist or retinal specialist immediately. The most commonly reported adverse events (10-30%) were injection site reactions, temporary back pain during injection, changes in vision, including blurring, decreased sharpness in vision, and gaps in vision.

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.