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Visudyne for injection
Visudyne (verteporfin) is a photosensitizing agent that accumulates in abnormal blood vessels and is activated by light to produce reactive oxygen species that destroy those vessels.
Visudyne (verteporfin) is a photosensitizing agent that accumulates in abnormal blood vessels and is activated by light to produce reactive oxygen species that destroy those vessels. Used for Age-related macular degeneration with predominantly classic choroidal neovascularization, Pathologic myopia with choroidal neovascularization, Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.
At a glance
| Generic name | Visudyne for injection |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | QLT Inc. |
| Drug class | Photosensitizing agent |
| Target | Lipoprotein and abnormal vasculature (non-selective) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Ophthalmology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Verteporfin is a benzoporphyrin derivative that preferentially localizes to neovascular tissue. Upon intravenous injection, it circulates and concentrates in abnormal choroidal neovascular membranes. When exposed to non-thermal red light (689 nm wavelength) in a process called photodynamic therapy (PDT), verteporfin generates singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species that cause selective thrombosis and closure of the abnormal vessels while minimizing damage to surrounding normal tissue.
Approved indications
- Age-related macular degeneration with predominantly classic choroidal neovascularization
- Pathologic myopia with choroidal neovascularization
- Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy
Common side effects
- Injection site reactions (pain, edema, extravasation)
- Photosensitivity reactions
- Vision decrease or blurred vision
- Headache
- Subretinal or retinal hemorrhage
Key clinical trials
- SCARFREE-001: Verteporfin for Scar Prevention (PHASE2)
- Photodynamic Therapy of Primary Localized Prostate Cancer With the SpectraCure P18 System (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Ranibizumab and Reduced Fluence PDT for AMD (PHASE2)
- Comparing Intravitreal Aflibercept Monotherapy vs Aflibercept Combined With Reduced Fluence PDT in PCV Treatment (NA)
- Clinical Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of the SpectraCure P18 System (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) - Directed PDT Triple Therapy (PHASE4)
- Aflibercept in Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PHASE4)
- Treatment of Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy in Pachychoroid (NA)
Primary sources
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| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |