Foscan®

Foscan® is a photosensitizing agent (a light-sensitive drug), which contains temoporfin and is used in photodynamic therapy (PDT).

In October 2001, Foscan® was approved in the European Union, Norway & Iceland as a local therapy for the palliative treatment of patients with advanced head and neck cancer who have failed prior therapies and are unsuitable for radiotherapy, surgery or systemic chemotherapy.

The aims of treatment with Foscan® may include preservation of organ function, local tumour destruction, relief of symptoms and avoidance of disease-related complications.

As part of the PDT process, Foscan® requires oxygen and laser light of a specific wavelength of 652 nm for activation. There is a delay of 4 days between injection of Foscan® into the bloodstream and activation with laser light. This allows time for accumulation of Foscan® in the cancer cells.

As with other photosensitizing agents, administration of Foscan® results in patients becoming highly sensitive to light. For Foscan®, the period of sensitivity is approximately 15 days and, therefore, appropriate light exposure precautions should be followed during this period.

For further advice please contact your doctor or nurse. There are a number of centres in Europe carrying out PDT treatments.

If your doctor considers PDT treatment is appropriate for you then you may be referred to one of these specialist centres.

Health professionals can find further information about Foscan®, including the Foscan monograph, clinical development, chemistry, administration and much more  in the secure area of our web side.