Patient Education

A Picture Guide to PHOTOFRIN for cancer therapy

Research Service

This guide will help you understand how photodynamic therapy (PDT) with PHOTOFRIN (porfimer sodium) works. It describes what side effects may occur and what you can do before and after treatment to prevent a photosensitivity reaction. If you have more questions after reading this guide, be sure to ask your doctor.

Before treatment:

Photodynamic therapy with PHOTOFRIN is a treatment for certain types of cancer. It uses a combination of a photoactive drug (a drug that is made active by light) and light from a non-thermal laser (a "cold" laser).

After the PHOTOFRIN treatment, your skin and eyes will be very sensitive to direct sunlight and bright bulbs.

Before you leave home:

Be sure that windows in your home have curtains or shades to block out direct sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight from skylights.

Bring or wear to the hospital:

  • Dark sunglasses

  • Gloves

  • Wide-brimmed hat

  • Long-sleeved shirt and slacks

After treatment:

Common side effects:

Your skin and eyes will be very sensitive to bright light for about 30 days after the injection.

  • Avoid direct sunlight or bright bulbs. You can watch TV or go to the movies.

     

  • Stay away from undraped windows or skylights. Normal indoor light is okay.

  • Avoid "helmet" type hairdryers (like those found in beauty salons). Hand help hair dryers on low settings are safer to use.

Other possible side effects:

  • You may experience severe bladder irritation within a few days after PDT. This may include painful urination, blood in urine, pain in the lower abdomen, rectal pain, and increased urinary frequency.

Talk with your doctor about what to expect.

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During Treatment and Managing Exposure:

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