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

QLT Ophthalmics is committed to providing high-quality support to help patients access the Visudyne therapy they need. By answering your questions expeditiously and helping to resolve the issues that affect you, we hope to help you in your efforts to preserve your vision.

Reimbursement Hotline

QLT Ophthalmics Reimbursement Hotline gives you the latest information on reimbursement and Medicare issues related to Visudyne therapy. You can take advantage of this service by calling 1-877-736-2778.

Patient Assistance Program (PAP)

If you or a family member or friend can’t afford the cost of Visudyne treatment and/or lack insurance, the QLT Ophthalmics Patient Assistance Program provides 2 free Visudyne treatments for qualified patients. To find out more about this program, call 1-877-736-2778.

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.