Let's learn about the drug Methoxsalen. Are you aware of this drug used for skin diseases?

Have you been prescribed Methoxsalen by your doctor for a skin condition, perhaps vitiligo or severe psoriasis? If so, this article is intended to briefly discuss some of the things you need to know about using this medication. This is a somewhat specialized medication, so it is important for you to have a good understanding of it.

What is Methoxsalen?

Simply put, Methoxsalen is a drug that makes your skin more sensitive to light, especially UV light. It is not a stand-alone drug. Usually, after this drug is given, you will be given a special ultraviolet radiation treatment a few hours later. This treatment is also known as PUVA (Psoralen + UVA) .

This treatment method is mainly used for:

• Severe psoriasis .
• Vitiligo (help restore lost skin pigment).
• In some cases, it is also used to control skin symptoms of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma , a specific type of cancer that occurs in the skin.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication

This medication is not the same for everyone. Therefore, it is important to discuss these things with your doctor. This information is essential for your doctor to decide if this medication is right for you.

• If you have any eye problems , for example, if you have cataracts or if you have had your lens removed.
• If you have heart disease or liver disease .
• If you have specific medical conditions such as Lupus , Porphyria , or Xeroderma Pigmentosum .
• If you have had skin cancer in the past or currently have it.
• If you experience unusual skin reactions when exposed to the sun (photosensitivity).
• If you have previously received arsenic treatment or X-ray treatment .
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
• If you are a breastfeeding mother .
• If you have an allergic reaction to Methoxsalen or any other medicine, food, or dye.

How should I use the medicine?

Following the exact instructions for using this medicine is essential for the success of the treatment.

• These capsules should be taken orally .
• When taking the medicine , take it with a low-fat meal or a glass of milk . Doing so can reduce the risk of stomach upset rather than taking it on an empty stomach.
• If you feel uncomfortable after taking the medicine, ask your doctor if you can break the dose prescribed by your doctor into two parts, taking them 30 minutes apart .
• Never take more than the amount prescribed by your doctor, and never use it more often than prescribed.

What to do if you take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I miss a dose of medication?

Since the day and time of taking this medicine are linked to the UV treatment, it is very important not to miss the medication. If you are unable to take the medicine on the scheduled day or cannot attend the treatment, call your doctor immediately and inform him/her.

Other things that may interact with this medicine

Methoxsalen is a drug that can interact with other medications and substances, so tell your doctor about everything you are taking.

This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins, traditional medicines, and herbal products. Also, tell them if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Things to be careful about when taking medicine

This is the most important part. Follow these instructions exactly.

Sun Protection

This is a must! After taking the medication, your skin will become hypersensitive to sunlight.

• You should protect yourself from the sun as much as possible. Stay indoors whenever possible. If you must go outside, wear long-sleeved clothing, long pants, and a hat that covers your entire body.
• Use a good sunscreen .
• Stop using sun lamps or tanning beds/booths completely.
• Remember the time frame: Avoid sun exposure for 24 hours before your UV treatment and for at least 8 hours after taking the medication.
• Sunglasses: This is also very important. For the first 24 hours after taking the medication , whenever you are exposed to even a little sunlight (even if it's coming from a window at home), you should wear wrap-around, UV-blocking sunglasses that completely cover your eyes and block 100% of UV rays. This can help prevent possible damage to your eyes.

Other important points

• Medical tests: Go to the clinics with your doctor on scheduled days to check the progress of your treatment. It may take some time to get the results.
• Eye exams: Since this medication may cause conditions such as cataracts, have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist at regular intervals during treatment. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your vision.
• Cancer risk: Long-term use of this medication may increase your risk of certain types of cancer, such as skin cancer. Talk to your doctor about this risk.
• Do not switch capsule types: This medicine may come in different types (e.g. hard-gelatin, soft-gelatin) capsules. Use only the type your doctor prescribes. Do not switch. This may change the timing of your UV treatment.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medication, methoxsalen can cause side effects.

If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, please inform your doctor about them as well.

Methoxsalen, skin diseases, vitiligo, psoriasis, PUVA, UV treatment, side effects