Product image of Melaoline (Methoxsalen) supplied by GNH India

Melaoline

Active Ingredient:
Methoxsalen
Origin:
EU

Melaoline (Methoxsalen)

Methoxsalen, the active ingredient in Melaoline, is a psoralen presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It is employed as a dermatologic photosensitizer to treat conditions such as psoriasis and vitiligo in adult patients.
GNH India supplies Melaoline as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Uni-Pharma Kleon Tsetis Pharmaceutical Laboratories S.A.

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Indications & Clinical Uses

Methoxsalen is used as a photosensitizing agent in dermatologic disorders that respond to UVA‑mediated therapy.

  • Psoriasis: reduces epidermal hyperplasia and scaling, improving plaque appearance.
  • Vitiligo: promotes repigmentation of depigmented skin areas when combined with controlled UVA exposure.

How It Works

  • Methoxsalen intercalates between DNA base pairs and, upon activation by UVA light, forms covalent cross‑links with pyrimidine residues. These cross‑links inhibit DNA synthesis and cell proliferation, leading to decreased epidermal hyperplasia and modulation of melanocyte activity in targeted skin regions.

Side Effects

Methoxsalen may cause a range of adverse reactions, ranging from mild to severe, especially when combined with UVA exposure.

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
  • Headache: transient cranial discomfort.
  • Photosensitivity reactions: increased skin sensitivity to light.
  • Mild erythema: redness of exposed skin.
  • Pruritus: itching at treated sites.
  • Gastrointestinal upset: occasional vomiting or abdominal discomfort.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe phototoxic burns: blistering and ulceration of skin.
  • Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes requiring monitoring.
  • Hemolytic anemia: especially in patients with G6PD deficiency.
  • Cardiac arrhythmias: rare but reported with high systemic exposure.
  • Severe nausea/vomiting: may require medical intervention.
  • Secondary malignancies: theoretical risk with prolonged use.

Precautions & Warnings

Methoxsalen therapy requires careful patient assessment and monitoring to minimize risks.

  • Assess liver function: obtain baseline hepatic enzymes before initiation.
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure: advise protective clothing and sunscreen.
  • Review concomitant photosensitizing drugs: identify and adjust other agents that increase light sensitivity.
  • Use contraception: advise women of reproductive potential to avoid pregnancy during treatment.
  • Monitor blood counts: periodic CBC to detect hemolysis or anemia.
  • Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in the original container, protect from moisture and direct light.

Avoid Interactions

Methoxsalen can interact with several drug classes, influencing safety and efficacy.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Concurrent psoralen or UVA therapy: may cause excessive phototoxicity.
  • Strong CYP450 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): increase systemic exposure.
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): heightened risk of bleeding.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Photosensitizing antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones): may amplify skin reactions.
  • Retinoids (isotretinoin): potential for increased skin irritation.
  • Diuretics (thiazides): may enhance photosensitivity.
  • Oral contraceptives: monitor for altered efficacy.
  • Antihistamines: possible additive sedation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Melaoline contains methoxsalen, a psoralen used as a dermatologic photosensitizer. It is prescribed primarily for chronic plaque psoriasis and for vitiligo, where controlled UVA exposure helps reduce skin scaling and promotes repigmentation of depigmented areas.

Methoxsalen intercalates into DNA and, when activated by UVA light, creates covalent cross‑links with pyrimidine bases. This blocks DNA synthesis and cell proliferation, leading to reduced epidermal hyperplasia in psoriasis and stimulating melanocyte activity in vitiligo.

The dosage of Melaoline is individualized. The prescribing clinician determines the appropriate amount and schedule based on the patient’s condition, response to therapy, and any concurrent treatments. Patients should follow the prescriber’s instructions exactly.

Safety data for methoxsalen in pregnancy and lactation are limited, and the product is generally classified as contraindicated or to be used only if the potential benefit justifies the risk. Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should discuss alternatives with their healthcare provider.

To request Melaoline, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH India works with hospitals, pharmacies, and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details, and any necessary import documentation.

Melaoline (methoxsalen) is a photosensitizer used with UVA (PUVA therapy), whereas many modern psoriasis drugs are systemic biologics or small‑molecule inhibitors targeting immune pathways. PUVA can be effective for patients who do not respond to topical agents, but it requires careful light exposure management and monitoring for phototoxicity.

Melaoline tablets should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in the original packaging. Keep the container tightly closed, protect from moisture and direct sunlight to maintain product stability.

Melaoline is taken orally as a tablet. After ingestion, the patient undergoes controlled exposure to UVA light (PUVA therapy) according to a schedule set by the treating dermatologist. The timing of UVA exposure relative to the dose is critical for efficacy and safety.

The most serious risks include severe phototoxic burns, liver toxicity, hemolytic anemia (especially in G6PD‑deficient individuals), and rare reports of cardiac arrhythmias. Patients should be monitored closely for any signs of these reactions, and therapy should be discontinued if they occur.

Melaoline is contraindicated in patients with a history of photosensitivity disorders, active liver disease, G6PD deficiency, uncontrolled hypertension, or those taking other photosensitizing agents without medical supervision. It should also be avoided in pregnant or nursing women unless clearly indicated by a physician.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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