Methoxsalen is used in combination with a specific kind of light therapy (controlled exposure to long wavelength ultraviolet radiation) to treat certain types of skin problems such as vitiligo (loss of skin colour in patches).
Your doctor or a healthcare provider will apply this medicine before the light radiation therapy.
This medicine is available as a lotion.
It will be applied only to small, well-defined, vitiliginous lesions. The hands and fingers of the individual applying the lotion may be protected from possible burns or skin reactions by wearing gloves.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of the treatment depending on your condition and response to the medication.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Methoxsalen.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- current or history of skin cancer
- systemic lupus erythematosus (autoimmune disease that causes inflammation)
- albinism (lack of pigment in the skin, hair or eyes)
- an inherited disorder that may cause skin or nerve problems
- absence of lens in the eyes
as Methoxsalen may not be suitable for you.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Wear protective clothing and sunglass when going outdoors. Avoid direct or prolonged exposure to the sun and ultraviolet (UV) lamps like tanning beds.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Methoxsalen may cause any of the following side effects: redness, blistering, irritation or burning sensation of the skin.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- severe skin irritation, sunburn
- skin growth or sores
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain antibiotics e.g. sulfonamides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones
- medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease e.g. thiazide
- other medicines for psoriasis e.g. anthralin, coal tar or its derivatives
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Methoxsalen.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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