Perspectives and Update on the Global Shortage of Verteporfin (Visudyne®)

Abstract

An ongoing global shortage of verteporfin (Visudyne ® ) limits the treatment possibilities for several chorioretinal diseases, including central serous chorioretinopathy, choroidal hemangioma, and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.Verteporfin is required to perform photodynamic therapy in these ocular diseases. Therefore, the current situation has a substantial impact on eye care worldwide. The worldwide supply of verteporfin appears to be manufactured by a single factory, which is situated in the United States. The distribution of verteporfin is done by different companies for different regions of the world. Official communication