Photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy

A drug called Verteporfin is used to apply this treatment for macular degeneration. This medicine is very sensitive to light and exposure to light causes the drug to release compounds (known as free radicals) that can close abnormal blood vessels. The medication is injected into the arm.  

A light is then shone on the eye for about 90 seconds. The light activates the medicine, which destroys the new blood vessels, thus helping to improve or slow down vision loss.  

Unlike laser treatment, this drug does not cause retinal burns but the patient must avoid exposing their skin or eyes to direct sunlight or artificial lights for several days after taking the medication.