Methoxsalen is a psoralen drug used with UVA light in PUVA therapy to treat conditions like vitiligo and psoriasis. It makes skin more sensitive to UVA so controlled exposure can slow disease or repigment skin. If you’re facing PUVA, this page gives practical, plain-language information so you know what to expect and how to stay safer.
Methoxsalen can be taken by mouth or applied to the skin before UVA exposure. The drug sits in the skin, and when UVA hits it, chemical bonds form in skin cell DNA. That reaction slows rapid skin cell growth (helpful in psoriasis) or helps pigment cells recover in vitiligo. Treatment schedules vary: many people get several sessions per week over weeks to months, under a dermatologist’s plan.
Oral methoxsalen is prescription-only and usually timed so the drug peaks when you get your UVA dose. Topical or bath forms exist for some cases, letting doctors target specific areas and limit whole-body exposure. Your dermatologist will pick the form, dose, and frequency that fit your condition and medical history.
Because methoxsalen increases light sensitivity, the biggest risks are sunburn and long-term skin damage. Short-term side effects commonly include nausea, headache, itching, or mild burning. After regular PUVA over years, studies have shown higher risks for certain skin cancers, so doctors try to minimize total UVA exposure.
Simple precautions reduce risk: wear UVA-blocking goggles during each treatment and for about 24 hours after taking an oral dose, cover treated skin outside the clinic, and avoid tanning beds and strong sunlight for at least a day after treatment. Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take—some drugs increase photosensitivity or affect how methoxsalen works. Also mention liver problems, pregnancy, or breastfeeding; methoxsalen is usually avoided in those situations.
Your dermatologist should order regular skin checks and eye exams. Eyes are vulnerable, so protective eyewear matters every time you start treatment. Keep a treatment diary so you and your doctor can track total UVA exposure and side effects—this helps decide when to stop or switch therapies.
Final practical tips: only use methoxsalen under specialist supervision, follow timing and protection rules exactly, and ask about alternatives if you’re worried about long-term UVA exposure. If you have questions about dosing, monitoring, or interactions, your dermatologist or pharmacist can give clear, personalized advice.
