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temoporfin

L01XD05

Forms & Strengths

Solution for injection: 4 mg/mL in organic solvent

Adult Dosing

0.15 mg/kg body weight administered as a slow intravenous injection
Light activation (laser) performed 96 hours after injection using 652 nm wavelength light

Pediatric Dosing

Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established

Indications

Palliative treatment of advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in patients unsuitable for radiotherapy, surgery, or systemic chemotherapy

Mechanism of Action

Photosensitizer activated by light of specific wavelength (652 nm)
Excitation generates reactive oxygen species and singlet oxygen leading to localized tumor necrosis and vascular shutdown

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to porphyrins or temoporfin
Presence of porphyria or other diseases exacerbated by light
Existing active infections
Tumors eroding into a major blood vessel

Adverse Reactions

Cutaneous photosensitivity (severe skin burns upon exposure to sunlight or strong indoor light)
Local tumor site reactions (pain, edema, hemorrhage, necrosis)
Dysphagia, odynophagia, and oral pain
Constipation, nausea, and vomiting
Asthenia

Drug Interactions

Concomitant use with other photosensitizing agents increases the risk of severe cutaneous photosensitivity reactions
Caution with hepatotoxic drugs due to potential additive hepatic effects
Concurrent use with drugs causing peripheral neuropathy or strong cytochrome P450 interactions requires careful clinical monitoring

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use