What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Abnormal connection of the tubes that connect the esophagus and the trachea or lungs
- Enlarged blood vessels in the esophagus
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Porphyria
- Recent or ongoing radiation
- Tumors near major blood vessels
- Ulcers in the esophagus
- An unusual or allergic reaction to porfimer, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breastfeeding
What may interact with this medication?
- Certain antibiotics, such as doxycycline or sulfamethoxazole; trimethoprim
- Certain medications for diabetes, such as, glimepiride, glipizide, glyburide
- Griseofulvin
- Phenothiazines, such as chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine
- Certain diuretics, such as chlorothiazide
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.
This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun and bright indoor light for 30 days or more after treatment. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing, sunscreen, and dark sunglasses. Do not use sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.
Talk to your care team if you may be pregnant. Serious birth defects can occur if you take this medication during pregnancy and for 5 months after the last dose. You will need a negative pregnancy test before starting this medication. Contraception is recommended while taking this medication and for 5 months after the last dose. Your care team can help you find the option that works for you.
If your partner can get pregnant, use a condom during sex while taking this medication and for 5 months after the last dose.
Do not breastfeed while taking this medication and for 5 months after the last dose.