Scenesse
Scenesse (afamelanotide) is an implant that's placed under the skin in adults to treat painful skin reactions from light due to a rare genetic condition called erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It's the first FDA-approved treatment to improve tolerance to light in adults with EPP. It's convenient to use because you only have to get the implant once every 2 months. But it might cause side effects, such as darkening of the skin or freckles. This medication is brand name only so it can be expensive.
What is Scenesse (afamelanotide)?
What is Scenesse (afamelanotide) used for?
Phototoxicity due to erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)
How Scenesse (afamelanotide) works
Scenesse (afamelanotide) is a man-made form of a natural hormone found in our bodies called alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone. This hormone raises the level of eumelanin, a pigment in the skin that helps protect your skin against light.
People with EPP are very sensitive to light and experience very painful skin reactions (phototoxicity) under sunlight and some artificial light. By raising the level of eumelanin, Scenesse (afamelanotide) helps people with EPP be less sensitive to light.
Drug Facts
Get your GoodRx coupon
What are the side effects of Scenesse (afamelanotide)?
Common Side Effects
- Implant site reactions, such as burning, redness, bleeding, itching, swelling (21%)
- Nausea (19%)
- Throat pain (7%)
- Cough (6%)
- Feeling tired (6%)
Other Side Effects
- Dark spots or patches on the skin or skin moles
- Dizziness
- Respiratory tract infection
- Sleepiness
- Skin irritation
Source: DailyMed
The following side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Pros and cons of Scenesse (afamelanotide)
Pros
Helps improve tolerance to light in people with EPP
Placed under the skin every 2 months
Implant gets absorbed into the body after about 2 months, so you don't need to get it removed
Cons
Can't be used in children
Brand name only, so might be expensive
Needs to be placed under the skin by a healthcare provider (you can't do it yourself)
Pharmacist tips for Scenesse (afamelanotide)
After you get your Scenesse (afamelanotide) implant placed under your skin, you can remove the dressing after 24 hours. If you notice any reaction at the implant site, such as swelling or redness, let your provider know.
You'll need to get a new implant placed every 2 months, since Scenesse (afamelanotide) will dissolve and get absorbed by your body after this amount of time.
Make sure to wear protective clothing when you go out in the sun to prevent painful skin reactions. For people with EPP, protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves, might be more effective than sunscreen at protecting you from sunlight.
If you're pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your provider about the risks and benefits of taking Scenesse (afamelanotide).
Keep up with your twice-yearly skin exams so your provider can check for any skin changes that might be caused by Scenesse (afamelanotide). If you notice anything unusual about your skin like new dark spots, let your provider know.
If your Scenesse (afamelanotide) implant comes out or feels uncomfortable, contact your provider.
Frequently asked questions about Scenesse (afamelanotide)
How to save using GoodRx
What are the risks and warnings for Scenesse (afamelanotide)?
Scenesse (afamelanotide) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Skin color changes
Scenesse (afamelanotide) might lead to darkening of your skin or freckles. It's recommended to get your skin checked twice a year while taking Scenesse (afamelanotide) so your provider can check for any skin changes. Although most colored spots on your skin are harmless, they can sometimes be cancerous so it's important to get them checked. If you notice any new changes on your skin, let your provider know.
Skin reactions
Continue to practice sun safety with Scenesse (afamelanotide) to prevent skin reactions. Make sure to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when you go out in the sun.
Scenesse (afamelanotide) dosage forms
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16mg | 1 implant | $49614.62 | $49614.62 |
Typical dosing for Scenesse (afamelanotide)
A 16 mg Scenesse (afamelanotide) implant is placed into the fatty area above your hip by a healthcare provider every 2 months.
The implant slowly releases medication in your body during this time.
How much does Scenesse (afamelanotide) cost?
Scenesse (afamelanotide) images
Get savings updates for Scenesse (afamelanotide)
Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Scenesse (afamelanotide) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.
Browse medications
View AllResearch prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.