GENERIC NAME: TRIOXSALEN - ORAL (try-OCK-sull-in)

BRAND NAME(S): Trisoralen

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Because serious side effects could occur during treatment with trioxsalen (eye lens damage, other skin problems), patients must be carefully selected and be under close medical supervision.

USES: This medication is a photosensitizer used to increase skin tolerance to sunlight and enhance pigmentation. It darkens the skin and thickens skin layers. It is used with UV light therapy.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. It is usually taken 2 to 4 hours before exposure to UV light. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than prescribed.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach upset, headache, skin tenderness, nervousness, swelling of the hands or feet, leg cramps, skin rash, skin burns or itching may occur. Notify your doctor if any of these effects is severe or continues. Use of this medication has been associated with increased risk of eye damage, skin aging and skin cancer. Discuss the risks and benefits of this therapy with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: liver disease, eye problems, heart disease, history of cancer, porphyria, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication is found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.