Methoxsalen is available in tablet form to be taken by mouth with low-fat food or milk as instructed by your healthcare provider, typically 90 minutes to 2 hours before undergoing UVA light treatment. Using methoxsalen with food can increase the absorption of the medication while reducing the likelihood of nausea.
The appropriate dosage of methoxsalen will be determined by factors such as weight, medical history, and response to treatment. The amount and timing of UVA light treatment may vary depending on skin type and treatment response. Initially, patients may receive UVA light treatment 2 to 4 times per week, but the frequency may decrease as their condition improves. For treating mycosis fungoides and psoriasis, the usual adult dose of Methoxsalen is 10 to 20 milligrams taken orally, 1.5 to 3 hours before UVA exposure. The maximum recommended daily dose is 60 milligrams. Avoid sunlight and sunlamps for at least 24 hours after taking Methoxsalen. Patients should also wear protective clothing and sunscreen when going outdoors.
After taking methoxsalen, patients should take particular care to protect their skin and eyes from UVA light exposure. For 24 hours after taking the medication, patients should wear wrap-around sunglasses to block UVA rays from entering the eyes and avoid sunlight (including sunlight through windows) on their skin or lips for at least 8 hours. UVA light can cause methoxsalen to bind to the lenses of the eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts. When outside during daylight hours, patients should wear protective clothing (including a hat, gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and pants) and sunscreen that blocks UVA light. Patients should consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist for information on which sunscreen to use. Sunscreen should not be applied to areas of the skin affected by psoriasis until after the UVA light treatment.
During the UVA light treatment, patients should closely follow all instructions provided by their healthcare professional. After the UVA light treatment, patients should avoid sunbathing for at least 48 hours to reduce the risk of severe burns. Patients are advised to consult their healthcare provider for additional guidance regarding these and related matters.
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