Trioxsalen

Dosage Forms Available

• Trioxsalen is taken orally (tablets).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Trioxsalen is intended for use by adults aged 18 and above.

Contraindications

• Trioxsalen is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to psoralens, lupus erythematosus, porphyria, melanoma or history of melanoma, invasive squamous cell carcinomas, and in those with aphakia (absence of the lens of the eye).

Other Medications to Avoid

• Trioxsalen may interact with antiepileptic medicines (such as phenytoin and carbamazepine), sedatives (like barbiturates), antibiotics (such as doxycycline and ciprofloxacin), diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide), antimycotics (like griseofulvin) and other psoralens (like methoxsalen).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose of Trioxsalen increases the risk of phototoxic reactions like skin burning, blistering and rashes when exposed to UVA light. Overdose may also cause nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion and vision problems. Seek immediate medical attention.
• If you forget to take a dose of Trioxsalen, take it as soon as you remember but at least 2 hours before UVA light treatment. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consult your doctor if you miss multiple doses.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For skin itching and dryness, you can use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser.
• Resting in a dark, quiet room can help alleviate headaches.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Trioxsalen may cause dizziness. Therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these side effects after taking this medication.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Trioxsalen may cause harm to the fetus and should be avoided during pregnancy. It is unknown if Trioxsalen passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with this medication. Always consult your doctor before taking this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals with a history of skin cancer should exercise caution when using Trioxsalen, as it may increase the risk of skin cancer.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Regular monitoring of the skin for any suspicious lesions is advised due to the increased risk of skin cancers associated with long-term use of Trioxsalen.
• Regular eye check-ups with an ophthalmologist are recommended as Trioxsalen may cause vision problems including cataracts.