Methoxsalen

Also known as: Xanthotoxin

Drug #925

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.

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Primary Characteristics

Methoxsalen is also known as Xanthotoxin.

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Benzopyran.

It is classified in Photosensitizer pharmacological group. It is also classified under Antidotes .

Molecular Weight: 216.16 · Solubility in Water: soluble in cold water, sparingly soluble in hot water · Non-proprietary name: Methoxsalen.

Pharmacokinetics

Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 0.75-2.4 hr, renal excretion is 95%(metabolite).

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.

Contraindications

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.

Dosage

Methoxsalen's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
20 mg	20 mg	—	PO	As Required
1 %	1 %	—	Topical	As Required
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
0 – 0	—	—		Not recommended for this age group
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
0 – 0	—	—		Not recommended in this age group

Drug Interactions

Unknown2 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Methoxsalen produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Skin cancer. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

Methoxsalen is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Depression, Dizziness, Edema, Headache, Hypotension , Insomnia, Itching, Nausea, Nervousness, Peeling of skin, Pruritus , VertigoX.

Warnings / Precautions

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.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Caps

Lotion

Oint

Tabs

Storage Conditions

Methoxsalen should be stored Tab, Oint, Cream, Lotion.

Drug Classification

1.13.9 — Anti-psoriatics

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Methoxsalen in Pakistan:

French LCPW Mass