Melanocyl

Uses
Melanocyl (Methoxsalen USP) is a medication that is typically prescribed in combination with ultraviolet light therapy to treat patients with severe psoriasis. It works by enhancing the skin's sensitivity to receiving ultraviolet light (UVA) radiation. To be effective in the treatment of psoriasis, Methoxsalen must be used alongside controlled ultraviolet light therapy. It may also be used to treat vitiligo or other skin conditions as prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage and Administration
Melanocyl (Methoxsalen) should be used as prescribed and instructed by a doctor. The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. To prevent an upset stomach, it is advised to take the tablets with some low fat foods or a glass of milk along with a full glass of water. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage and length of treatment as it will depend on the patient's weight, condition and their response to the therapy. Do not apply sunscreen to areas of the skin affected by psoriasis or vitiligo until after the UVA light treatment.

Side effects
Patients using Melanocyl (Methoxsalen) may encounter unwanted side effects such as:

• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Itching, drying, reddening or darkening of the skin
• Skin thinning
• Dizziness
• Leg cramps
• Vision changes
• Mental or mood changes

Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions
Always wear wrap-around sunglasses that block out UVA light for at least 8 hours after taking the medication and 24 hours after UVA treatment. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen SPF 15 or higher when you are outdoors. It is important to remember not to sunbathe for 48 hours after having the UVA light treatment.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Melanocyl (Methoxsalen) may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.