Medicines
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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Generic: Porfimer sodium
Photofrin (porfimer sodium) is a photosensitizing agent used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) to treat certain types of cancer and other conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs known as porphyrins. After intravenous administration, Photofrin preferentially accumulates in tumor cells. When exposed to specific wavelengths of light, Photofrin becomes activated, producing reactive oxygen species that destroy the targeted cells.
Used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) to treat certain types of cancers and other conditions.
Outcome:
Increased photosensitivity reactions
Mechanism:
Additive photosensitizing effects
Outcome:
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
Mechanism:
Additive effects on platelet function
Outcome:
Reduced efficacy of antihistamines
Mechanism:
Photofrin may interfere with antihistamine action
Most likely new formulation: targeted delivery system for enhanced efficacy (Year: 2026, 30% confidence)
Based on current clinical trial activity, there is a low (5%) likelihood of a new indication approval within the next 2 years.
Photosensitizing Agent, Porphyrin
Porphyrin