GENERIC NAME: METHOXSALEN - ORAL (meh-THOCK-sull-in)
BRAND NAME(S): Oxsoralen-Ultra
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: Because serious side effects could occur during treatment with methoxsalen (eye lens damage, other skin problems), patients must be carefully selected and be under close medical supervision. Different brands of this drug are not interchangeable because they have significant differences in how they act in the body.
USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of skin disorders (e.g., psoriasis, vitiligo). It is used in combination with ultraviolet (UVA) light therapy.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication one and one half hour to 2 hours before UVA therapy or as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or take it more often. Your condition will not clear faster, but side effects may be increased. This medication may be taken with food or milk to minimize nausea. If necessary, divide the dose in half and take each half 30 minutes apart. It is important to carefully follow instructions for exposure to ultraviolet light. Over exposure may result in serious sunburn. Do not switch brands of this drug without first checking with you doctor or pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Eye damage, cataracts, skin aging and skin cancer are risks of this medication and UVA therapy. Protect eyes by using goggles during UVA therapy. Notify your doctor if you develop any of the following: stomach upset, nausea, headache, dizziness, nervousness, sleeplessness, rash, mouth sores, fever blisters, fluid retention, leg cramps. This medication causes changes in skin color that appear after a few weeks and up to 9 months. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Psoriasis - Read about psoriasis symptoms, causes, treatment information, medication and types: vulgaris, guttate, inverse and pustular. Red dry flakes, skin scales and plaques of raised skin are common symptoms.
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