methoxsalen-topical (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Certain foods may cause reactions when eaten during methoxsalen therapy. Try to avoid them. They include carrots, celery, figs, limes, mustard, parsley and parsnips. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. After use, avoid sun exposure for at least 12 to 48 hours. Wear protective clothing such as hats, gloves and UVA-absorbing sunglasses. Apply broad screen sunscreens (SPF 15) to all exposed skin including lips. Tell your doctor if you have: allergy to sunlight, infections, lupus, porphyria, skin cancer, drug allergies.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of medications that may increase your sensitivity to sunlight such as: anthralin, coal tar, griseofulvin, phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine, promethazine), nalidixic acid, bacteriostatic soaps, sulfonamides, (e.g., sulfisoxazole), tetracyclines, thiazide diuretics, dyes (e.g., methylene blue, toluidine blue, rose bengal, methyl orange). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES: This medication must be taken under close medical supervision. Discuss the risks and benefits of this therapy with your doctor. Periodic lab tests and eye exams will be done to monitor the effectiveness of this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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