Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Methoxsalen is employed in conjunction with controlled ultraviolet light (UVA) to manage severe psoriasis and may also be utilized for other skin conditions such as vitiligo and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Methoxsalen functions by heightening the skin’s sensitivity to UVA light. In the treatment of psoriasis, this combination aids in decelerating the excessive growth of skin cells. For vitiligo treatment, the combination helps boost the population of pigment-producing cells in the skin.
Uses and Dosage
Refrain from sunbathing for 24 hours before taking methoxsalen and undergoing UVA light treatment.
Take this medication orally with food or milk as prescribed by your doctor, typically 2 to 4 hours prior to your scheduled UVA light treatment. Ingesting methoxsalen with food enhances medication absorption and reduces the likelihood of nausea.
The dosage of methoxsalen is determined by your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. The frequency and duration of UVA light exposure for each treatment depend on your skin type and treatment response. Initially, you may receive UVA light treatments 2 to 4 times a week, gradually decreasing as your condition improves.
For 24 hours post-capsule ingestion, wear wrap-around sunglasses during daylight hours to block UVA light and prevent its entry into the eyes. UVA light exposure can cause methoxsalen to bind to the eye lenses, potentially leading to cataracts.
Also, avoid sunlight on your skin or lips for at least 8 hours after taking methoxsalen (including sunlight through windows) to prevent excessive UVA exposure that may result in sunburn. If sunlight exposure is unavoidable, wear protective clothing (hat, gloves, long-sleeved shirt, pants) and/or use sunscreen that blocks UVA light.
Do not apply sunscreen to areas affected by psoriasis or vitiligo until after the UVA light treatment. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on sunscreen selection.
Follow all instructions provided by healthcare professionals during the UVA light treatment. Avoid sunbathing for at least 48 hours after UVA light exposure to minimize the risk of severe burns. Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- depression
- dizziness
- itching of skin
- nausea
- nervousness
- skin changes such as freckles, rash, acne
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- blistering and peeling of skin
- reddened, sore skin
- swelling (especially of feet or lower legs)
Caution
- Before starting methoxsalen, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any existing allergies to it or other substances. Inactive ingredients in this product might cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have conditions that make you sensitive to light, a history of skin cancer, undergone natural lens removal in the eye, received coal tar/UVB treatment, undergone radiation or arsenic treatment, have cataracts, liver disease, heart disease, or kidney disease.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as the use of methoxsalen is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while using methoxsalen, consult your doctor to assess the risks and benefits of continued medication.
- The passage of this medication into breast milk is uncertain, and therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended while using methoxsalen. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to weigh the potential risks to the infant.
Form and Strength
Oxsoralen is available in the following forms and strengths:
- methoxsalen soft capsules:
- 10 mg
FAQ
How quickly does Oxsoralen treat psoriasis?
It might take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks for skin lesions to go away. Long-term treatment is typically needed to keep psoriasis symptoms under control.
Do I have to avoid sunlight while taking Oxsoralen?
Avoid exposing your skin and lips to sunlight for at least 8 hours after using Oxsoralen and UVA light treatment. Also, don’t expose your skin to sunlight or sun lamps for 24 hours before or after treatment. Be sure to wear special sunglasses that completely block or absorb UVA light right after you take Oxsoralen.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/methoxsalen/what-is#faqs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/oxsoralen#adverseeffects
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/methoxsalen-oral-route/description/drg-20064761
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-64576/oxsoralen-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/cons/oxsoralen.html
