Methoxsalen
Methoxsalen Information

About Methoxsalen

Methoxsalen is a furocoumarin produced by Amni majus and other plants. It increases the photo dynamic pigmentation of skin; it does not induce pigmentation in the absece of ultraviolet light. Methoxsalen is used in the treatment of vitiligo.Severe sunburning can occur with topical application; Methoxsalen is customary to protect the surrounding skin with a sunscreen. Administered orally and topically, but the drug should be used orally only under medical supervision as it may cause gastrointestinal upset and central nervous toxicities after oral administration.

Indications

Methoxsalen is primarily indicated in conditions like Alopecia, Atopic dermatitis, Chronic dermatitis, Chronic psoriasis, Eczema, Lichen planus, Mycosis fungoides, Polymorphous light eruption, Psoriasis, Vitiligo.

Contraindication

Methoxsalen is contraindicated in conditions like Systemic lupus erythematosus,Dermatomyositis,Porphyria,Xeroderma pigmentosum,Hereditary dysplastic nevus syndrome,Trichothiodystrophy,Cockaynes syndrome,Previous malignant melanoma,Gorlins syndrome,Blooms syndrome.

Side Effects

Methoxsalen produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Skin cancer. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Methoxsalen therapy.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Methoxsalen are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Insomnia, Nervousness, Pruritus, VertigoX, Itching, Hypotension, Depression, Edema, Peeling of skin, nervousness, Nervousness, dizziness.

Warnings

Certain foods may cause reactions when eaten during methoxsalen therapy, try to avoid them, they include carrots, celery, figs, limes, mustard, parsley. This is not recommended for use during pregnancy. This increases sensitivity to sunlight, avoid exposure to sun 24 hours prior to using this medication, after use, avoid sun exposure for at least 8 hours, wear protective clothing (hats, gloves and UVA-absorbing sunglasses). Apply broad screen sunscreens (SPF 15) to all exposed skin including lips. Tell the doctor if patient have an allergy to sunlight, infection, lupus, porphyria, skin cancer, stomach trouble, cataracts, liver disease or heart and blood vessel disease.

High Risk Groups

Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.