Information about Porfimer Sodium

Generic Name : Porfimer Sodium
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Porfimer Sodium are provided here.

Pronunciation : POR-fi-mer

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Porfimer Sodium, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y57.5 Therapeutic Classification : Photosensitizer

Trade Names/Brand Names of Porfimer Sodium

International :

Photofin

Why is Porfimer Sodium Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antineoplastic agent, prescribed for esophageal cancer, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and dysplasia in Barrett's Esophagus. It is used along with "photodynamic" laser light therapy to reduce the size of tumors.

When should Porfimer Sodium not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with blood disorder porphyria, emergency breathing problem, tumors eroding into a major blood vessel and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Porfimer Sodium?

The first stage of PDT is the intravenous injection at 2 mg/kg.

How should Porfimer Sodium be taken?

It comes as a solution for injection, to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.

What are the warnings and precautions for Porfimer Sodium?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of kidney or liver impairment, severe acute respiratory distress, chest pain, any allergy, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause sensitivity to light. Protect your eyes and skin.

What are the side effects of Porfimer Sodium?

Blood - Anemia.
Heart - Abnormal heart rhythm, heart failure, fast heart rate.
Gastrointestinal - Constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing, esophageal swelling, blood vomiting, indigestion, diarrhea, eructation, blood in stool.
General - Fever, chest pain, pain, swelling in extremities, weakness.
Infections - Urinary tract infection.
Metabolic - Weight decreased, loss of appetite, dehydration.
Musculoskeletal - Back pain.
Central Nervous System - Sleeplessness, confusional state, anxiety.
Respitratory - Lung infection, difficulty in breathing, pneumonia, inflammation of pharynx, respiratory insufficiency, cough.
Skin - Photosensitivity reaction.
Heart - High or low blood pressure.