Porfimer Injection

What is this medication?

PORFIMER (POR fi mer) treats esophageal cancer and lung cancer. It may also be used to treat Barrett esophagus, changes in the tissue that lines the esophagus. It is used in combination with ultraviolet light therapy. It works by releasing energy (radiation) to slow or stop the spread of cancer cells or other irregular cells.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Photofrin

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

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected into a vein. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.

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.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Blood clot—pain, swelling, or warmth in the leg, shortness of breath, chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Stomach bleeding—bloody or black, tar-like stools, vomiting blood or brown material that looks like coffee grounds

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Sensitivity to light
• Skin reactions on sun-exposed areas
• Stomach pain
• Trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.