Oxsoralen-ultra

Common Name: methoxsalen

How does Oxsoralen-ultra work?

Methoxsalen belongs to the family of medications known as psoralens. It is used to treat the skin conditions vitiligo, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. For vitiligo, a skin condition where the skin loses its colour in irregular patches, it works by restoring colour to the affected areas. For psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, it is used in combination with high intensity UVA light therapy. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Oxsoralen-ultra?

Capsules: For vitiligo, the usual dose for adults and children over 12 years of age is 20 mg daily, taken 1.5 to 2 hours (for the regular capsules) or 2 to 4 hours (for the soft gelatin capsules) before exposure to sunlight or UV light treatment. For psoriasis or atopic dermatitis, the dose is based on body weight and taken 1.5 to 2 hours before UV light therapy. Methoxsalen should be taken after meals or with milk. Lotion: For vitiligo, apply once weekly to a few depigmented areas (areas that are missing skin colour) and expose to UV light for a maximum of one minute. Alternate the sites where you apply the medication. If you are using both the capsules and the lotion, protect the areas where the lotion has been applied from daily exposure to UV light. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be used exactly as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, check with your doctor. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Oxsoralen-ultra come in?

Each green, soft gelatin capsule, printed "ICN" on one side and "650" on the other, contains methoxsalen 10 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: polyethylene glycol.

What should I NOT take with Oxsoralen-ultra?

Methoxsalen should not be used by people who: have poor liver function have medical conditions that increase sensitivity to sunlight (such as porphyria, lupus, or infectious leukoderma) have aphasia are 12 years of age or younger are pregnant or may be pregnant are taking medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight are allergic to methoxsalen or any ingredients of the medication

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Oxsoralen-ultra?

Medical conditions: This medication should be used with caution by people who have blood clotting conditions or are taking blood thinners (e.g., warfarin). Liver function: People who are using this medication for vitiligo should have their liver function tested monthly for the first few months and occasionally thereafter. Food reactions: Avoid eating limes, figs, parsley, parsnips, mustard, carrots, and celery, as these foods may increase the risk of a more severe reaction to sunlight. Eye protection: During UV light therapy, wears goggles and keep your eyes closed. Wear sunglasses while outdoors on treatment days. Overdosage: Overdosage may cause serious burning or blistering. Do not increase the dose or exposure to UV light unless directed by your doctor. If you accidentally take too much medication, call your doctor immediately. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The safety of this medication for use while pregnant or breast-feeding has not been established. It should not be used during pregnancy or while breast-feeding unless, in the judgment of the doctor, the benefits outweigh the risks.