This medication is used to treat a certain inherited eye
condition (retinal dystrophy). Voretigene neparvovec is made from a certain
virus that has been specially prepared. The virus is used to carry a
certain human gene (RPE65) into cells. You will receive this treatment only
after tests by your doctor have found that this gene does not work the way
it should in your cells. This type of treatment is known as gene therapy.
Treatment may improve symptoms of retinal dystrophy, such as decreased
vision, loss of side vision, or poor vision at night.
Your doctor may prescribe medication (such as
prednisone) for you to take by mouth daily, starting 3 days before
treatment to each eye, and continuing for 2 weeks after the injections.
Carefully follow your doctor's directions for taking your
medication(s).
This medication is prepared and given by injection into
the affected eye(s) by a health care professional. Your doctor will treat
each eye on separate days, at least 6 days apart. The eye is numbed before
the injection. After the injection, you will remain in the doctor's office
for a while, and your eye(s) and vision will be monitored.
After leaving the hospital or clinic, try to rest lying
down as much as possible for 24 hours.
During your procedure, an air bubble will form in your
eye. This will slowly shrink over 1 week or longer. Do not fly in an
airplane, travel to high altitudes, or scuba dive until you are told the
air bubble is gone. A change in altitude while the air bubble is in your
eye may cause permanent vision loss.
Small amounts of virus may shed from your tears and nose
for a short time after the injection. Ask your doctor how to handle and
dispose of waste material from dressings, tears, and your nose for up to 7
days after the injection.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
Mild discomfort or increased tears may occur. If either
of these effects lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
This medication may rarely increase your risk for
developing certain serious eye conditions (such as cataracts,
endophthalmitis, retinal tear/detachment). Tell your doctor right away if
you notice any of these symptoms in the affected eye(s):
- pain
- vision changes (such as decreased vision, blurred vision,
flashes of light, seeing new floaters)
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
See also How to Use section.
Before receiving this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- other eye conditions (such as cataracts, glaucoma)
This drug may cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use
machinery, or do anything that needs clear vision until you can do it
safely.
Do not fly in an airplane, travel to high altitudes, or
scuba dive until your doctor says you may do so.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Medical tests (such as eye exams) should be done while
you are using this medication. Keep all medical appointments. Consult your
doctor for more details.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor right away for a new dosing
schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or doctor's office and will not be stored at home.