Methoxsalen
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Molecule Summary
| Uses | Re-pigmentation of skin patches in vitiligo and psoriasis along with UV light therapy |
| Therapy | Drugs For Psoriasis, Anti-Vitiligo |
| Side Effects | Disturbed sleep, Nausea, Low mood, Abdominal discomfort |
Medicines
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Molecule Description
Methoxsalen is a naturally occurring compound, found in some plants. On activation by UV light, this medicine leads to repigmentation of skin in patients with vitiligo (white spots), psoriasis (dry, scaly and flaky skin patches) and very fair skin tone (albinism).
Uses
- Re-pigmentation of skin patches in vitiligo and psoriasis along with UV light therapy.
Contraindications
When should one not use Methoxsalen
- If you have a known allergy to methoxsalen or any other component of this medicine.
- If you suffer from liver disease.
- If you are sensitive to sunlight.
- If you suffer from porphyria, lupus erythematosus, or white patches due to any infection.
- If you are under 12 years of age.
- If you are taking any medicine that can cause photosensitivity (allergic reaction to sunlight).
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Disturbed sleep
- Nausea
- Low mood
- Abdominal discomfort
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You suffer from liver disease.
- Your skin is sensitive to sunlight.
- You notice a change in your liver enzyme levels.
- You experience burning or blisters on the skin.
- You are taking this medicine for cosmetic purpose only.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Methoxsalen is a naturally occurring substance which is activated on UV light exposure. Methoxsalen acts on the level of your DNA and leads to repigmentation of skin patches in people with vitiligo or psoriasis. It is also beneficial in producing a tan for people with very light skin colour (albinism).
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Medicines causing photosensitivity should not be given along with Methoxsalen.
- Concomitant administration of abacavir, aceclofenac, acemetacin, acenocoumarol, acetaminophen, acetylsalicylic acid, acyclovir should be done with caution as the effective dose of medicine can be affected.
- Discuss with your doctor any other medicine, herbal preparation, and supplements you are taking currently to avoid any possible drug interactions.
Dosage
Overdose
Consumption of more than the prescribed dose may lead to a burning sensation and blistering of the skin. If you have taken too much of this medicine then contact your doctor or reach out to the nearest hospital immediately.
Missed a Dose
If you have missed taking any dose of this medicine then take it as soon as you remember. If it's already time for the next dose then skip the missed dose and follow the regular dosing schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Articles
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References:
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 4114, 8-Methoxypsoralen. [cited 9 Jun 2026]
- IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. Pharmaceuticals. Lyon (FR): International Agency for Research on Cancer; 2012. (IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, No. 100A.) METHOXSALEN PLUS ULTRAVIOLET A RADIATION. [cited 9 Jun 2026]
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