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Oxsoralen is a prescription medication used in combination with ultraviolet A (UVA) light therapy to treat certain skin conditions, including vitiligo and severe psoriasis.
It contains methoxsalen, an active ingredient that belongs to a class of medications called psoralens. These medications increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light, allowing carefully controlled UVA exposure to produce therapeutic effects.
The combination of methoxsalen and UVA light is called PUVA therapy, which stands for psoralen plus ultraviolet A photochemotherapy.
Unlike conventional topical medications that work independently, Oxsoralen requires controlled UVA exposure to produce its intended therapeutic effects.
Oxsoralen is available in different formulations, including oral capsules and topical lotion. The approved uses vary depending on the formulation and country.
Because methoxsalen significantly increases sensitivity to ultraviolet light, treatment must be supervised by a healthcare provider experienced in photochemotherapy.
Oxsoralen helps manage certain skin conditions when combined with carefully controlled UVA therapy. It should never be used with unsupervised sun exposure or tanning beds because of the risk of severe burns, eye damage, and skin cancer.Â
Oxsoralen may be used in combination with UVA therapy to help restore pigmentation in patients with certain forms of vitiligo.
Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose their natural color.
This occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin, are damaged or no longer function normally.
Melanin is the substance that gives skin, hair, and eyes their natural color.
Patients with vitiligo may develop pale or white patches on different areas of the body, including the face, hands, arms, and legs.
These patches may gradually increase in size or appear in additional areas over time.
Methoxsalen makes the treated skin more sensitive to UVA light.
When combined with carefully controlled UVA exposure, the treatment may stimulate pigmentation in areas where functioning melanocytes remain.
Over time, some patients may notice a gradual return of skin color.
However, repigmentation does not occur immediately, and several treatment sessions may be necessary before visible improvement develops.
The response varies depending on the location and extent of vitiligo, the availability of functioning melanocytes, and individual factors.
Some areas, such as the hands and feet, may respond less effectively than other parts of the body.
Oxsoralen does not permanently cure vitiligo, and pigmentation changes may not occur in every patient.
Oxsoralen may help restore pigmentation in certain areas affected by vitiligo when combined with medically supervised UVA therapy. Treatment results vary, and improvement often requires repeated sessions.Â
Oxsoralen is used with UVA phototherapy to manage certain cases of severe psoriasis that have not responded adequately to other treatments.
Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin condition that causes skin cells to multiply more quickly than normal.
This results in thick, raised patches of skin, commonly called plaques.
These plaques may appear red, pink, purple, or darker than surrounding skin, depending on skin tone, and may be covered with white or silvery scales.
Patients may experience persistent itching, burning, dryness, pain, and skin cracking.
In severe cases, psoriasis can affect large areas of the body and interfere with daily activities, sleep, and quality of life.
Oxsoralen increases the skin’s sensitivity to UVA light.
When the treated skin is exposed to a carefully measured dose of UVA radiation, the activated methoxsalen can slow excessive skin cell growth and influence inflammatory activity.
This may help reduce the thickness of psoriasis plaques, scaling, and associated inflammation.
Oxsoralen with UVA therapy is generally reserved for severe, persistent, disabling psoriasis that has not responded adequately to other treatments.
Because PUVA therapy can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer, the benefits and risks must be carefully evaluated.
Oxsoralen may help control severe, treatment-resistant psoriasis by reducing excessive skin cell growth when combined with supervised UVA therapy. It is not generally a first-line treatment for mild psoriasis.Â
Certain Oxsoralen formulations have also been used with UVA therapy to manage selected cases of atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis, commonly called eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes itching, dryness, redness, and irritation.
Some patients develop thickened or cracked skin because of persistent inflammation and scratching.
Although many cases of eczema can be managed with moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, and other medications, severe or treatment-resistant cases may require additional therapies.
PUVA therapy may help suppress certain inflammatory processes involved in atopic dermatitis.
However, methoxsalen-based phototherapy is not routinely recommended for every patient with eczema because other treatments may provide a more favorable balance of benefits and risks.
Canadian Oxsoralen product information includes atopic dermatitis among the conditions treated with certain formulations, but approved indications vary internationally.
Your healthcare provider will consider the severity of the condition, previous treatments, and individual risk factors before recommending PUVA therapy.
Oxsoralen may be considered for selected cases of difficult-to-treat atopic dermatitis, but its use requires specialist assessment and controlled UVA exposure.Â
Methoxsalen may also be used in certain specialized treatments for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).
CTCL is a group of cancers involving T lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that normally helps the immune system fight infections.
In CTCL, abnormal T cells may accumulate in the skin, causing patches, plaques, itching, or other skin changes.
One form of CTCL is called mycosis fungoides.
Methoxsalen combined with UVA therapy may be used in selected patients to help control skin manifestations of CTCL.
Another specialized treatment is called extracorporeal photopheresis.
During photopheresis, certain blood cells are collected, treated with a photosensitizing agent such as methoxsalen, exposed to UVA light outside the body, and returned to the patient.
This procedure is performed in a specialized medical setting.
However, not every Oxsoralen formulation is approved for CTCL or photopheresis.
For example, the U.S. prescribing information for Oxsoralen-Ultra soft gelatin capsules specifically states that this formulation is not approved for photopheresis.
Your healthcare provider will determine whether methoxsalen-based treatment is appropriate and which formulation should be used.
Methoxsalen may have a role in specialized CTCL treatments, but it is important to distinguish PUVA therapy from extracorporeal photopheresis. Oxsoralen products are not interchangeable for these procedures.Â
Oxsoralen contains methoxsalen, a photosensitizing medication that becomes biologically active when exposed to ultraviolet A light.
UVA is a type of ultraviolet radiation that penetrates into the skin.
Methoxsalen increases the sensitivity of certain skin cells to this light.
When methoxsalen is combined with controlled UVA exposure, it interacts with cellular components, including DNA.
These interactions can affect cell growth and inflammatory responses, producing therapeutic effects in selected skin disorders.
Increases Sensitivity to UVA Light
Methoxsalen makes treated skin more responsive to UVA radiation.
This allows carefully measured UVA exposure to produce effects that would not occur to the same extent without the medication.
Slows Excessive Skin Cell Growth
In psoriasis, PUVA therapy can reduce the rapid multiplication of skin cells.
This may help decrease plaque thickness, scaling, and inflammation.
Supports Repigmentation in Vitiligo
In patients with vitiligo, methoxsalen combined with UVA may encourage pigment production and support repigmentation in areas containing functioning melanocytes.
Modifies Inflammatory Activity
PUVA therapy may also influence certain immune and inflammatory processes involved in chronic skin conditions.
These effects can help reduce symptoms in appropriately selected patients.
Oxsoralen works by increasing the skin’s sensitivity to UVA light. The combination of methoxsalen and controlled UVA exposure helps regulate skin cell activity and may support repigmentation in certain patients.Â
The time needed for Oxsoralen to produce noticeable results depends on the condition being treated, the formulation used, the frequency of UVA treatments, and individual response.
Oxsoralen does not produce its intended therapeutic effects simply by taking or applying the medication.
It must be combined with UVA exposure according to a carefully controlled treatment schedule.
For psoriasis, some patients may notice improvements in scaling, redness, and plaque thickness after several treatment sessions.
However, significant improvement may require several weeks or longer.
For vitiligo, repigmentation usually develops more gradually and may take several months of repeated treatment.
The degree of improvement varies considerably between patients.
Your healthcare provider will monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust the UVA dose or treatment schedule when appropriate.
Because excessive UVA exposure can cause severe burns and increase long-term skin cancer risk, do not attempt to speed up treatment by increasing your exposure.
Oxsoralen requires repeated, medically supervised UVA treatments. Improvement in psoriasis may develop over several weeks, while repigmentation in vitiligo may take months.
Oxsoralen contains methoxsalen and is available in oral and topical formulations, depending on the country and product.
The medication must be used in combination with controlled UVA therapy under the supervision of a healthcare provider trained in photochemotherapy.
Possible side effects include nausea, itching, redness, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.
More serious complications may include severe skin burns, blistering, eye damage, premature skin aging, and an increased risk of certain skin cancers, particularly with repeated or extensive PUVA exposure.
Patients receiving oral methoxsalen may need specially designed UVA-protective eyewear during treatment and for a prescribed period afterward.
Skin protection is also important because sensitivity to ultraviolet light may continue after the treatment session.
Different oral methoxsalen formulations may produce different levels and timing of drug absorption and must not be substituted without medical supervision.
Never use Oxsoralen with tanning beds or unplanned sunlight exposure. Follow your phototherapy specialist’s instructions carefully to reduce the risk of burns, eye injury, and long-term skin damage.
Oxsoralen is a prescription medication used in combination with ultraviolet A (UVA) light therapy to treat certain skin conditions, particularly severe psoriasis and selected cases of vitiligo.
It contains methoxsalen, a medication belonging to a class of drugs called psoralens. These medications increase the skin’s sensitivity to UVA light, allowing controlled ultraviolet exposure to produce therapeutic effects.
The combination of methoxsalen and UVA light is called PUVA therapy, which stands for psoralen plus ultraviolet A photochemotherapy.
Oxsoralen is available in different formulations, including oral capsules and topical lotion. The instructions below primarily apply to Oxsoralen-Ultra oral capsules, which have different absorption characteristics from other methoxsalen formulations.
Oxsoralen-Ultra capsules are generally taken by mouth with low-fat food or milk approximately 90 minutes to two hours before a scheduled UVA treatment.
Because methoxsalen significantly increases sensitivity to ultraviolet light, improper use can cause severe burns, eye damage, and other serious complications.
Oxsoralen must only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider experienced in PUVA therapy. Never take additional doses or expose yourself to sunlight or tanning beds to increase treatment effectiveness.Â
Oxsoralen-Ultra capsules should be taken by mouth according to your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Swallow the prescribed capsules whole with water, low-fat milk, or a small amount of low-fat food.
Taking the medication with low-fat food or milk may help reduce nausea and support more consistent absorption.
Oxsoralen-Ultra is generally taken approximately 90 minutes to two hours before the scheduled UVA treatment.
This timing is important because the medication must reach an appropriate concentration in the body before ultraviolet light is administered.
Do not crush, chew, open, or divide the capsules unless your pharmacist specifically confirms that doing so is appropriate for your formulation.
The amount of medication prescribed depends on your body weight, medical condition, skin type, and response to previous treatments.
Different methoxsalen formulations may be absorbed at different rates. Therefore, they should not be substituted for one another without medical supervision.
Take Oxsoralen-Ultra at the exact time prescribed before UVA therapy. Do not change the dosage, formulation, or timing without consulting your healthcare provider.
The recommended dosage of Oxsoralen depends on the formulation, body weight, condition being treated, and individual response.
For Oxsoralen-Ultra capsules used in psoriasis treatment, the dosage is generally calculated according to body weight.
The prescribing information provides weight-based doses ranging from approximately 10 mg to 70 mg per treatment, depending on the patient’s weight.
Therefore, a universal dose of 10–20 mg or a maximum daily dose of 60 mg is not appropriate for every patient.
Methoxsalen is not usually taken every day for PUVA treatment. It is taken according to a schedule coordinated with UVA therapy.
The amount of UVA radiation is also individualized.
Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate exposure based on your skin type, sensitivity to ultraviolet light, and response to previous sessions.
Taking too much methoxsalen or receiving excessive UVA exposure can cause severe burns and blistering.
Never determine your own Oxsoralen dosage or increase the number of capsules. Both the medication dose and UVA exposure must be calculated and supervised by your phototherapy specialist.Â
The frequency of PUVA treatment depends on the skin condition being treated and the patient’s response.
For severe psoriasis, treatment may initially be scheduled two or three times weekly, although some treatment protocols use different frequencies.
Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate schedule based on your skin type, medical history, and the severity of your symptoms.
As the condition improves, treatment sessions may become less frequent.
For patients with psoriasis, the goal is to reduce inflammation, scaling, and the thickness of skin plaques.
For patients with vitiligo, treatment may focus on gradually restoring pigmentation to affected areas.
Improvement generally requires repeated treatment sessions over several weeks or months.
Avoid scheduling additional UVA sessions or taking methoxsalen between prescribed treatments.
Excessive exposure can increase the risk of skin injury, premature skin aging, and skin cancer.
Follow your prescribed PUVA schedule carefully. Do not increase the frequency of treatment or the duration of UVA exposure without medical guidance.
Eye protection is one of the most important precautions during methoxsalen treatment.
Oxsoralen makes the body more sensitive to UVA light, including tissues inside the eyes.
When methoxsalen is present in the eye’s lens, exposure to UVA radiation may cause chemical reactions that damage lens proteins.
Over time, this can increase the risk of cataracts.
Cataracts develop when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, potentially causing blurred vision and other visual problems.
To reduce this risk, patients taking oral methoxsalen must wear specially designed, wrap-around sunglasses that block or absorb UVA radiation.
These sunglasses should be worn during daylight hours for 24 hours after taking methoxsalen, including when exposed to indirect sunlight or sunlight passing through windows.
Ordinary sunglasses may not provide adequate protection because UVA light can enter from the sides.
During the UVA treatment itself, patients must wear protective goggles specifically designed for phototherapy.
Your healthcare provider may recommend an eye examination before treatment begins and periodic examinations during long-term therapy.
Wear UVA-blocking wrap-around sunglasses during daylight for 24 hours after taking Oxsoralen. Use the protective goggles provided during treatment to reduce the risk of eye damage and cataracts.Â
Methoxsalen increases the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, making it easier to develop severe sunburns.
After taking Oxsoralen, even ordinary sunlight may cause significant skin reactions.
For this reason, patients should avoid unnecessary exposure to natural sunlight, including indirect sunlight and sunlight passing through windows.
At a minimum, direct and indirect sunlight exposure to the skin and lips should be avoided for eight hours after taking methoxsalen, according to the oral prescribing precautions.
Your phototherapy specialist may recommend additional protection for longer periods depending on your treatment schedule.
When outdoor exposure cannot be avoided, wear protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat, gloves, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides UVA protection to exposed skin and lips.
A sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is generally a practical choice, but it must also provide adequate UVA protection.
If you are receiving PUVA therapy for psoriasis, do not apply sunscreen to the psoriasis patches scheduled for treatment before entering the UVA chamber unless your phototherapy specialist specifically instructs you to do so.
Applying sunscreen to these areas may interfere with the intended UVA exposure.
Avoid unnecessary sunlight after taking Oxsoralen. Protect exposed skin with clothing and UVA-blocking sunscreen, and follow your phototherapy specialist’s instructions about when sunscreen should be applied.Â
During PUVA therapy, follow all instructions provided by the healthcare professionals operating the UVA treatment equipment.
The amount of ultraviolet radiation administered is carefully controlled to produce therapeutic effects while minimizing skin damage.
Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate exposure time based on your skin type, sensitivity to methoxsalen, and response to previous sessions.
Patients must wear protective goggles that block UVA radiation throughout the treatment.
Certain sensitive areas of the body may also require shielding.
For example, your healthcare provider may recommend protecting the genital area or other areas not affected by the skin condition.
Do not remove protective eyewear or change your position in the UVA chamber unless instructed.
If you experience unusual burning, severe discomfort, dizziness, or other unexpected symptoms during treatment, notify the healthcare professional immediately.
Never attempt PUVA treatment using a home tanning bed or unsupervised ultraviolet light source. UVA exposure must be carefully measured and administered by trained healthcare professionals.
Patients receiving PUVA therapy should avoid sunbathing for at least 48 hours after treatment.
This precaution is necessary because methoxsalen increases the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation.
The effects of UVA treatment and additional sun exposure can combine, increasing the risk of severe redness, burning, and blistering.
Some PUVA-related skin reactions may develop several hours after treatment rather than immediately.
As a result, the skin may appear normal shortly after a session even though a delayed burn is developing.
Avoid tanning beds, sunlamps, and deliberate sun exposure during the recommended protection period.
If you must go outdoors, wear protective clothing and use an appropriate broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Continue following your prescribed eye protection instructions as well.
Do not sunbathe for at least 48 hours after PUVA treatment. Additional ultraviolet exposure may cause severe burns even when the skin initially appears unaffected.Â
If you forget to take Oxsoralen before your scheduled UVA treatment, contact your phototherapy clinic for instructions.
Do not take the medication late and proceed with UVA treatment without approval.
The timing between taking methoxsalen and receiving UVA radiation is essential for safe and effective therapy.
Taking the medication too early or too late may change how the skin responds to ultraviolet light.
Do not take additional capsules to compensate for a missed dose.
If your UVA appointment is cancelled after you have already taken Oxsoralen, do not attempt to replace the treatment with sunlight or a tanning bed.
You must still follow the recommended skin and eye protection precautions because methoxsalen remains active in your body for a period after administration.
Your healthcare provider will determine when treatment can safely be rescheduled.
Never double a missed Oxsoralen dose or substitute natural sunlight for prescribed UVA therapy. Contact your phototherapy clinic if your medication or treatment schedule is interrupted.
Mild skin redness may occasionally occur after PUVA therapy.
However, severe redness, burning, blistering, or significant discomfort may indicate excessive ultraviolet exposure.
These reactions may develop several hours after treatment and can become more pronounced over the following day.
If you experience unusual redness or burning, avoid further ultraviolet exposure and contact your healthcare provider.
Do not apply additional methoxsalen or attend another UVA session until your treatment team has assessed the reaction.
Your healthcare provider may recommend postponing treatment, adjusting the UVA dose, or providing treatment for the affected skin.
Seek urgent medical attention if you develop extensive blistering, severe pain, fever, or signs of dehydration.
Contact your phototherapy specialist promptly if you develop significant redness, burning, or blistering after Oxsoralen and UVA treatment. Severe skin reactions require urgent medical assessment.
Oxsoralen is a potent photosensitizing medication that must only be used with medically supervised UVA therapy.
Because it increases sensitivity to ultraviolet light, improper use can result in severe burns, blistering, eye damage, and long-term skin complications.
Repeated PUVA treatment may also increase the risk of certain skin cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Patients receiving extended treatment may require regular skin examinations.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of skin cancer, cataracts, liver disease, or other conditions that may affect treatment safety.
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take because some products can further increase sensitivity to sunlight.
Take Oxsoralen only as prescribed, wear UVA-protective eyewear, avoid unnecessary sunlight, and attend all scheduled medical assessments. Never modify the medication dose or UVA exposure without medical supervision.
Oxsoralen (Methoxsalen) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Oxsoralen is a prescription medication used in combination with ultraviolet A (UVA) light therapy to treat certain skin conditions, including severe psoriasis and selected cases of vitiligo.
It contains methoxsalen, a medication belonging to a class of drugs called psoralens. These medications increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light, allowing controlled UVA exposure to produce therapeutic effects.
The combination of methoxsalen and UVA light is known as PUVA therapy, or psoralen plus ultraviolet A photochemotherapy.
Although Oxsoralen may help improve certain skin conditions, it can also cause serious side effects if used incorrectly. These include severe sunburn, blistering, eye damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer with repeated treatment.
Because Oxsoralen significantly increases sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, patients must follow strict precautions before, during, and after treatment.
Oxsoralen should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider experienced in PUVA therapy. Never increase your medication dosage or UVA exposure without medical guidance.Â
One of the most important precautions associated with Oxsoralen is its ability to make the skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation.
Methoxsalen is a photosensitizing medication, meaning it increases the skin’s response to UVA light.
Although this effect is necessary for PUVA therapy, excessive or uncontrolled ultraviolet exposure may cause severe skin damage.
Patients may experience intense redness, burning, swelling, or blistering after exposure to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light.
These reactions may develop several hours after exposure rather than immediately.
To reduce the risk of burns, patients should avoid unnecessary sunlight before and after treatment.
For oral Oxsoralen-Ultra, prescribing instructions recommend avoiding sunbathing for 24 hours before treatment and avoiding direct or indirect sunlight for at least eight hours after taking methoxsalen.
Sunlight passing through windows may still contain UVA radiation capable of affecting photosensitized skin.
When outdoor exposure cannot be avoided, wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, gloves, and broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides adequate UVA protection.
Do not use tanning beds, sunlamps, or other artificial ultraviolet light sources outside your prescribed treatment.
Avoid unnecessary sunlight and artificial UVA exposure while taking Oxsoralen. Follow your phototherapy specialist’s instructions carefully to prevent severe burns and blistering.Â
Oxsoralen may cause several side effects, particularly when taken orally.
One of the more commonly reported side effects is nausea, which may occur after taking methoxsalen capsules.
Some patients may also experience vomiting, dizziness, headaches, or mild stomach discomfort.
Dizziness may cause lightheadedness or difficulty maintaining balance, especially when standing or moving suddenly.
Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience dizziness or reduced alertness.
Because Oxsoralen increases sensitivity to ultraviolet light, skin-related reactions may also occur during PUVA treatment.
These include itching, redness, tenderness, burning, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Severe redness or blistering may indicate excessive UVA exposure and should be reported promptly.
Do not assume that significant burning is a normal part of treatment.
Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the UVA dose or postpone your next treatment session.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent nausea, severe dizziness, headaches, unusual skin irritation, or significant burning after PUVA therapy.Â
Oxsoralen may interact with medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight or affect how methoxsalen is processed by the body.
Certain medications can make the skin more vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation.
When these medications are combined with Oxsoralen, the risk of severe sunburn, skin irritation, or blistering may increase.
Examples include certain antibiotics, medications used to treat psychiatric conditions, and some drugs used for high blood pressure.
Some hormonal medications, including certain oral contraceptives, may also contribute to photosensitivity in susceptible individuals, although this does not mean every birth control pill must automatically be discontinued.
Your healthcare provider should review your complete medication list before treatment begins.
Do not stop prescribed medications independently, even if they may interact with Oxsoralen.
Your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative medication, a change in treatment timing, or additional precautions.
Tell your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, herbal supplements, and topical treatments you use before starting Oxsoralen.
Patients with liver or kidney disease should inform their healthcare provider before receiving Oxsoralen.
The liver plays an important role in processing methoxsalen.
Patients with impaired liver function may process the medication differently, potentially increasing exposure and the risk of adverse effects.
Certain Oxsoralen formulations list significant liver impairment as a contraindication.
Kidney disease may also affect treatment decisions, particularly when the patient has other medical conditions or takes medications that influence drug elimination.
Your healthcare provider will consider your medical history and may recommend additional testing before starting PUVA therapy.
In some circumstances, an alternative treatment may be more appropriate.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have liver disease, kidney problems, or another significant medical condition before taking Oxsoralen. Do not begin treatment without an appropriate medical assessment.Â
Oxsoralen should generally not be used in patients with certain medical conditions that cause abnormal sensitivity to sunlight.
These conditions include lupus erythematosus, porphyria, xeroderma pigmentosum, and other photosensitivity disorders.
Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can affect the skin, joints, and internal organs.
Some patients with lupus develop skin reactions after exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation.
Because Oxsoralen further increases sensitivity to UVA light, treatment may cause severe skin reactions or worsen an existing photosensitivity condition.
Patients with these disorders may be at increased risk of burns and other complications.
Your healthcare provider will carefully review your medical history before recommending PUVA therapy.
Do not use Oxsoralen if you have a condition associated with increased photosensitivity unless a specialist has determined that treatment is appropriate under exceptional circumstances.Â
Oxsoralen requires particular caution because repeated PUVA treatments can increase the risk of certain skin cancers.
Methoxsalen makes skin cells more sensitive to UVA radiation.
With repeated exposure, ultraviolet radiation may damage cellular DNA and contribute to long-term skin changes.
Patients who receive extensive PUVA therapy have an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
The risk may increase with the total number of treatment sessions and cumulative UVA exposure.
Patients with melanoma or a history of melanoma should not receive Oxsoralen-Ultra under its U.S. prescribing information.
Patients with invasive squamous cell carcinoma are also listed among those who should not receive treatment.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have previously had skin cancer, precancerous skin lesions, or extensive ultraviolet exposure.
Regular skin examinations may be recommended during and after prolonged PUVA treatment.
Oxsoralen may increase the risk of skin cancer with repeated UVA exposure. Patients with certain skin cancers or a history of melanoma should not receive treatment.Â
Oxsoralen should generally be avoided during pregnancy because its safety in pregnant patients has not been established.
There is insufficient information to determine whether methoxsalen can harm a developing baby.
Because the medication interacts with cellular DNA when activated by UVA light, potential reproductive risks require careful consideration.
PUVA therapy also involves exposure to ultraviolet radiation and may cause significant side effects in the mother.
Your healthcare provider will consider the severity of your skin condition and whether safer alternative treatments are available.
Patients who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or think they may be pregnant should inform their healthcare provider before treatment.
Do not start Oxsoralen during pregnancy without specialist assessment.
Avoid using Oxsoralen during pregnancy unless a specialist determines that treatment is clearly necessary and the potential benefits justify the risks.Â
Consult your healthcare provider before using Oxsoralen if you are breastfeeding.
It is not known whether methoxsalen passes into human breast milk in amounts that could affect a nursing infant.
Because information about its safety during breastfeeding is limited, the prescribing information recommends choosing between breastfeeding and methoxsalen treatment.
Your healthcare provider will consider the importance of treatment, possible alternatives, and the needs of your baby.
If treatment is necessary, your healthcare provider may recommend temporarily or permanently changing your feeding arrangements, depending on the treatment plan.
Do not independently stop a necessary medication without discussing your options.
Breastfeeding is generally not recommended during oral Oxsoralen treatment unless your healthcare team has provided a specific, medically assessed plan.Â
Nausea is a common side effect associated with oral methoxsalen.
Some patients may also experience vomiting or stomach discomfort after taking the medication.
Taking Oxsoralen-Ultra with low-fat food or milk may help reduce nausea and support more consistent medication absorption.
However, the appropriate administration instructions depend on the specific formulation.
Different methoxsalen products may have different absorption characteristics and treatment timing requirements.
For this reason, follow the instructions provided with your prescription rather than switching between formulations.
If vomiting occurs after taking a dose, contact your phototherapy clinic before proceeding with UVA treatment.
Do not automatically repeat the dose because this may result in excessive medication exposure.
Take Oxsoralen according to the food and timing instructions for your prescribed formulation. Contact your healthcare provider if nausea or vomiting becomes persistent or severe.Â
Oxsoralen may increase the risk of eye damage if the eyes are exposed to UVA radiation while methoxsalen is present in the body.
Methoxsalen can enter the eye’s lens, where exposure to UVA light may cause chemical reactions involving lens proteins.
Over time, this may contribute to cataract formation.
Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens becomes cloudy, potentially causing blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing clearly.
Patients receiving PUVA therapy must wear protective goggles during UVA treatment.
For oral Oxsoralen-Ultra, specially designed wrap-around sunglasses that block or absorb UVA radiation should also be worn during daylight hours for 24 hours after taking methoxsalen.
These glasses are necessary even when sunlight is indirect or passes through windows.
Ordinary sunglasses may not provide sufficient protection because UVA light can enter around the sides.
Patients with cataracts, previous eye surgery, or other eye conditions should inform their healthcare provider before treatment.
Patients without a natural eye lens, a condition called aphakia, should not receive Oxsoralen-Ultra under U.S. prescribing information because of an increased risk of retinal damage.
Wear UVA-blocking wrap-around sunglasses for 24 hours after taking oral Oxsoralen and use appropriate protective goggles during treatment. Report any changes in vision to your healthcare provider.Â
Certain medications can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and may be particularly concerning when combined with Oxsoralen.
Examples include tetracycline antibiotics, such as doxycycline, and certain fluoroquinolone antibiotics.
Sulfonamide antibiotics may also increase photosensitivity in some patients.
Phenothiazines, a group of medications sometimes used for psychiatric conditions or nausea, can also make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet radiation.
Other potentially photosensitizing medications include thiazide diuretics, griseofulvin, and certain topical skin treatments.
When combined with methoxsalen, these substances may increase the likelihood of significant redness, burning, blistering, or other skin reactions.
Your healthcare provider may recommend temporarily avoiding certain medications or using an alternative treatment.
However, do not stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or other prescribed treatments without medical advice.
Tell your healthcare provider if you take tetracyclines, sulfonamides, phenothiazines, or other medications that cause photosensitivity. These combinations may increase the risk of severe skin reactions during PUVA therapy.Â
Oxsoralen is a potent photosensitizing medication that must be used only with carefully controlled UVA therapy.
Its most important risks include severe skin burns, eye damage, and an increased risk of certain skin cancers after repeated treatment.
Patients with liver disease, photosensitivity disorders, certain skin cancers, or significant eye conditions may require additional precautions or may not be suitable for treatment.
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should discuss treatment alternatives with their healthcare provider.
Always follow the exact medication dosage, UVA treatment schedule, and skin and eye protection instructions provided by your phototherapy specialist.
Seek urgent medical attention if you develop extensive blistering, severe burns, sudden vision changes, or other serious symptoms after Oxsoralen treatment. Never use tanning beds or unsupervised sunlight as a substitute for prescribed UVA therapy.
These precautions are not an exhaustive list of all possible warnings and interactions associated with Oxsoralen. Requirements may differ between oral capsules, topical lotion, and other methoxsalen formulations.
Yes. Oxsoralen may be used in combination with ultraviolet A (UVA) light therapy to treat certain skin conditions besides psoriasis, including vitiligo and selected forms of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Oxsoralen belongs to a class of medications called psoralens, which increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light. When combined with carefully controlled UVA exposure, methoxsalen can influence skin cell growth, pigmentation, and inflammatory activity. This treatment is known as PUVA therapy, or psoralen plus ultraviolet A photochemotherapy. For patients with vitiligo, PUVA therapy may help stimulate pigment production and gradually restore skin colour in affected areas. However, the response varies, and not every patient experiences successful repigmentation. Methoxsalen-based treatment may also be used for certain forms of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, including mycosis fungoides. Mycosis fungoides is a type of lymphoma that primarily affects the skin and may cause persistent patches, plaques, itching, or other skin changes. PUVA therapy may help control these skin symptoms in selected patients. However, not every Oxsoralen formulation is approved for all these conditions. In particular, methoxsalen used for extracorporeal photopheresis requires a specialized formulation and procedure. Your healthcare provider will determine whether Oxsoralen is suitable based on your diagnosis, medical history, and previous treatments. Oxsoralen may be used for psoriasis, vitiligo, and selected other skin conditions, but its approved uses depend on the formulation. Treatment must be supervised by a healthcare provider experienced in PUVA therapy.
The time needed for Oxsoralen to produce noticeable improvements depends on the skin condition being treated, its severity, the prescribed UVA treatment schedule, and individual response. Oxsoralen does not work as a conventional medication that produces its full therapeutic effects immediately after administration. Instead, methoxsalen increases the skin’s sensitivity to UVA light, allowing carefully measured ultraviolet exposure to produce treatment effects over time. For severe psoriasis, some patients may notice reduced redness, scaling, and plaque thickness after several PUVA sessions. However, meaningful improvement may require several weeks of regular treatment. For vitiligo, results usually develop more gradually. Repigmentation may require several months of repeated treatment, and some affected areas may respond better than others. Patients receiving PUVA therapy for certain forms of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma may also require repeated sessions before noticeable improvements occur. Your healthcare provider will regularly evaluate your skin condition and determine whether the treatment is providing sufficient benefits. Do not increase your methoxsalen dosage, treatment frequency, or UVA exposure to obtain faster results. Excessive ultraviolet exposure can cause severe burns and increase the risk of long-term skin damage. Oxsoralen treatment may take several weeks or months to produce noticeable improvement. Continue following your prescribed PUVA treatment schedule and avoid unsupervised ultraviolet exposure.
Yes. Oxsoralen requires strict safety precautions because methoxsalen makes the skin and eyes more sensitive to ultraviolet A radiation. After taking oral Oxsoralen, exposure to ordinary sunlight or artificial UVA sources may cause severe skin reactions, including redness, burning, swelling, and blistering. Patients should avoid unnecessary sunlight, sunlamps, tanning beds, and other sources of ultraviolet radiation outside their prescribed treatment. For oral Oxsoralen-Ultra, patients are instructed to avoid direct and indirect sunlight on the skin for at least eight hours after taking the medication. Sunbathing should also be avoided for at least 48 hours after PUVA treatment. When outdoor exposure cannot be avoided, wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and long pants. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides adequate UVA protection, following your phototherapy specialist’s instructions. Eye protection is equally important. Patients taking oral methoxsalen must wear wrap-around sunglasses that block UVA radiation during daylight hours for 24 hours after taking the medication. Protective goggles are also required during UVA treatment to reduce the risk of eye damage and cataracts. Unlike contagious skin infections, taking Oxsoralen does not make your skin dangerous to other people through ordinary contact. There is no general requirement to avoid touching other people’s skin or clothing after taking oral methoxsalen. However, if you use a topical methoxsalen preparation, avoid transferring the medication onto another person’s skin or onto unintended areas of your own body. Follow the specific application precautions provided by your healthcare provider. Protect your skin and eyes from unintended UVA exposure while using Oxsoralen. Never use tanning beds or sunlight as a substitute for prescribed PUVA therapy, and avoid transferring topical methoxsalen to other people.
Oxsoralen contains methoxsalen, the generic name of the active ingredient responsible for increasing the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet A (UVA) light. Methoxsalen has been marketed under different brand names and in several formulations, including oral capsules and topical preparations. In the United States, the FDA has approved a generic equivalent of Oxsoralen-Ultra 10 mg oral capsules. However, regulatory approval does not guarantee that a generic medication is currently available at pharmacies. In Canada, Oxsoralen and Oxsoralen-Ultra oral capsules are listed as cancelled post-market in Health Canada’s Drug Product Database. This means these products are no longer marketed in Canada under those registrations. Different methoxsalen formulations may also have different absorption characteristics. Therefore, patients should not switch between brands, generic products, or formulations without medical guidance. If Oxsoralen is unavailable, your healthcare provider may recommend another suitable treatment for your skin condition. Generic methoxsalen has received FDA approval, but actual availability depends on the country and pharmacy. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before changing formulations.
Oxsoralen is generally not recommended for children because its safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been adequately established. The Canadian prescribing information for traditional Oxsoralen 10 mg capsules states that safety has not been established in children aged 12 years and younger. U.S. prescribing information for Oxsoralen-Ultra also states that pediatric safety has not been established. Children may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of methoxsalen because the medication significantly increases sensitivity to UVA radiation. Potential complications include severe sunburn, blistering, eye damage, and long-term skin changes. Repeated PUVA exposure may also increase the lifetime risk of certain skin cancers, making long-term safety especially important in younger patients. For children with psoriasis, vitiligo, or other inflammatory skin conditions, healthcare providers generally consider alternative treatments with more established pediatric safety information. In exceptional circumstances, a dermatologist may evaluate whether specialized phototherapy is appropriate for an older child or adolescent. This decision requires careful assessment of the condition, previous treatments, and potential risks. Parents and caregivers should never administer Oxsoralen or arrange UVA treatments for a child without specialist supervision. Oxsoralen is generally avoided in children, particularly those aged 12 years and younger. Pediatric treatment should only be considered after a specialist has carefully evaluated the potential benefits and long-term risks.
| Generic name: | Methoxsalen |
|---|---|
| Formulation: | Uncoated Tablet |
| Strength(s): | 10mg |
| Quantities Available: | 40 |
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When ordering Oxsoralen (methoxsalen) from a Canadian pharmacy, you can typically purchase up to a 90-day supply at one time, which is common for prescription medications to ensure adequate management of chronic conditions without frequent refills.
Here’s what you need to know:
Dosage and Quantity: Oxsoralen is commonly prescribed in dosages of 10 mg, taken 1 to 2 hours before each UV light therapy session. Assuming you have UV light therapy sessions 2 to 3 times per week, for a 90-day supply, you would order approximately 72 to 108 capsules (8 to 12 sessions per month x 3 months).
Yes, we do sell methoxsalen on our website. You can enjoy low prices on this medication. To purchase methoxsalen, you will need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. We require this to dispense the medication safely and appropriately. You can submit your prescription by mailing it to us, faxing it, or uploading it through your online account.
Yes, we ship Oxsoralen (methoxsalen) to both the United States and Puerto Rico.
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Online Pharmacies Canada has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Oxsoralen (Methoxsalen). Talk to your doctor or other qualified medical practitioners for medical attention or advice, or if you have any concerns about Oxsoralen (Methoxsalen).
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