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Luxturna

Generic name: voretigene neparvovec ophthalmic [voe-RET-i-jeen-ne-PAR-voe-vek-off-THAL-mik]
Drug class: ophthalmic agents

What is Luxturna?

The eye drops Luxturna are used to treat retinal diseases that can lead to night blindness, increased light sensitivity, and progressive vision loss.Luxturna can only be used by people who have a certain gene mutation. You will need to undergo a medical examination before receiving Luxturna.You will be assessed by your doctor to determine if you still have enough cells left in your retina for this medication to work.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Luxturna.

Side effects of Luxturna

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing and swelling in your face, lips or throat - seek medical assistance immediately!Voretigene Neparvovec may cause retinal changes that can lead to loss of vision, including

  • New or worsening cataplasma
  • The clear layer of the eyelids is thinned out.
  • Deposits under your retina
  • A hole or separation of layers in the middle of your retina.
  • The retina may thin or lose its function.
  • Breaks or wrinkles on the surface of retinal tissue;
  • Retinal detachment;
  • Blood in the retina
  • Permanent loss of sharpness in your vision

Speak to your doctor regarding the risks and benefits associated with this medication.

Luxturna may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • New or worsening vision problems;
  • Eye pain
  • You may see flashes of "floaters" or halos around lights,
  • Signs of an eye infection include: swelling or pain in the eyes; headache; increased sensitivity to lights; crusting; drainage; or a loss of vision.

Side effects of Luxturna include:

  • Eye pain, swelling, or redness
  • The cloudy appearance of the eye
  • Eyelid swelling;
  • Increased pressure inside the eye.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contacting the FDA in regards to side effects can be done via 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

The retina can be affected by Voretigene Neparvovec, which could cause vision loss. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits associated with Luxturna.

Before you take this drug

Anyone younger than 12 months old or older than 65 is not allowed to use Voretigene Neparvovec.Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to take Luxturna?

Luxturna can be injected into both eyes at once. This injection will be given in the doctor's clinic or office.Start taking a steroid medicine by mouth three days prior to your injection. Continue to use the steroid as prescribed by your doctor.It is recommended that each eye be treated separately, at least six days apart.Before giving you the injection, your doctor will first use a medicine that numbs your eye.Rest as much as you can on your back for at least 24 hours following each injection.You will have your eyes checked regularly to ensure that the medication is effective and does not cause serious side effects.Do not abruptly stop taking the steroid medication. You should follow your doctor's advice about reducing your dose.For a short time, small amounts of Luxturna remain in your tears. At least seven days after the injection, put all used bandages or eye dressings into a sealed bag and toss them in the garbage.

What happens if I miss the dose?

The daily dosage schedule for Voretigene Neparvovec does not exist.If you miss a dose, call your doctor. It is important to time your steroid injections with your voretigene-neparvovec. This will help you avoid certain side effects.

What happens if I overdose?

As Luxturna is administered by a healthcare professional, it is unlikely that an overdose will occur.

What should be avoided?

After treatment with this medication, an air bubble will appear inside your eye. When this air bubble is gone, your doctor will let you know. Avoid air travel and scuba diving until then. If the air bubble remains, these activities can result in permanent vision loss.

Interaction with other drug

Other medications you take won't interfere with the eye treatment you use on yourself.. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.