Temoporfin
Temoporfin is a prescription photosensitizing agent used in photodynamic therapy for the treatment of certain cancers, particularly advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. It is administered by injection and activated by a specific wavelength of light to selectively destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Temoporfin is a light-activated cancer treatment for advanced head and neck cancers that works by selectively destroying tumor cells when exposed to specific light wavelengths.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01XD05
- RxNorm
- 115243
- Generic
- Temoporfin
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primarily used for the palliative treatment of advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in patients who are not suitable for surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. It may also be used for other oncological applications depending on regional approvals.
As a photosensitizing agent, temoporfin accumulates preferentially in tumor tissue and is activated by exposure to red light at a specific wavelength. This activation generates reactive oxygen species that induce localized cellular damage and tumor cell death.
Patients must strictly avoid sunlight and bright indoor light exposure for a significant period after administration due to prolonged photosensitivity. Treatment requires specialized equipment and trained personnel. Contraindicated in patients with porphyria, certain photosensitivity disorders, or known hypersensitivity to the drug. May interact with other photosensitizing medications.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy