Product image of Metvix (Methyl Aminolevulinate) supplied by GNH India

Metvix

Active Ingredient:
Methyl Aminolevulinate
Origin:
EU

Metvix (Methyl Aminolevulinate)

Methyl aminolevulinate, the active ingredient in Metvix, is a photosensitizer presented as a 16% w/w cream for topical use. It is applied to skin lesions and, when activated by red light, selectively destroys abnormal keratinocytes, making it indicated for the treatment of actinic keratosis in adults with sun‑damaged skin.

GNH India supplies Metvix as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, providing quality‑assured batches that meet EU regulatory standards and supporting customers with logistics, regulatory documentation and post‑supply technical assistance.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Galderma International

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Indications & Clinical Uses

Metvix is used in photodynamic therapy for precancerous skin lesions.

  • Actinic keratosis: clears visible lesions and reduces the risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma.

How It Works

  • Methyl aminolevulinate penetrates epidermal cells and is metabolized to protoporphyrin IX, a photosensitizing porphyrin. Upon exposure to red light (approximately 630 nm), protoporphyrin IX generates reactive oxygen species that cause localized oxidative damage, leading to selective destruction of abnormal keratinocytes while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

Side Effects

Metvix may cause a range of local and systemic reactions.

Common Side Effects

  • Pain at the application site: discomfort during or after light activation.
  • Redness (erythema): visible skin flushing around treated area.
  • Swelling (edema): mild to moderate tissue edema.
  • Crusting: formation of a crust over the lesion.
  • Itching: pruritus in the treated zone.
  • Burning sensation: transient heat feeling.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe photosensitivity reaction: exaggerated skin response to light.
  • Infection of treated area: bacterial colonisation requiring medical attention.
  • Persistent ulceration: non‑healing sores beyond expected healing time.
  • Scarring: permanent tissue changes after lesion resolution.
  • Allergic contact dermatitis: immune‑mediated skin rash.
  • Rare systemic reactions: systemic hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis.

Precautions & Warnings

Before using Metvix, consider the following safety measures.

  • Lesion assessment: ensure lesions are suitable for photodynamic therapy.
  • Sun avoidance: protect treated skin from natural sunlight for at least 48 hours.
  • Protective dressings: cover the area after application to limit unintended light exposure.
  • Porphyria screening: avoid use in patients with known porphyria disorders.
  • Hypersensitivity check: discontinue if allergic reaction occurs.
  • Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from light and moisture.

Avoid Interactions

Metvix may interact with other agents that affect photosensitivity or skin healing.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Systemic photosensitizers (e.g., tetracyclines, sulfonamides): increase risk of severe phototoxicity.
  • Oral retinoids: amplify skin irritation and photosensitivity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Topical corticosteroids: may reduce therapeutic efficacy.
  • Other topical irritants (e.g., chemical peels): can exacerbate local skin reactions.
  • Anticoagulants: monitor for prolonged bleeding if ulceration occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Metvix is a prescription cream containing methyl aminolevulinate that is used in photodynamic therapy to treat actinic keratosis, a precancerous skin condition caused by chronic sun exposure.

Methyl aminolevulinate is converted inside skin cells to protoporphyrin IX, a photosensitizer. When the treated area is illuminated with red light, the compound generates reactive oxygen species that selectively destroy abnormal keratinocytes while sparing normal tissue.

The prescribed amount of Metvix is determined by the treating physician based on lesion size, number, and location. The healthcare professional will instruct the patient on the exact quantity to apply and the timing of light activation.

The safety of Metvix in pregnancy and lactation has not been established. It should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant, and the decision must be made by a qualified healthcare provider.

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

Metvix offers a photodynamic approach that selectively targets abnormal cells, whereas alternative options such as topical 5‑fluorouracil, imiquimod or cryotherapy rely on cytotoxic or destructive mechanisms. Photodynamic therapy can provide precise lesion clearance with a lower risk of scarring, but requires specialized light equipment.

Store Metvix at room temperature, below 25 °C, in the original packaging. Keep the container tightly closed, protect it from light and moisture, and avoid freezing to maintain product stability.

The cream is applied topically to the cleaned lesion area by a qualified professional. After a defined incubation period, the treated skin is exposed to red light of a specific wavelength to activate the photosensitizer. Post‑treatment care instructions are provided by the clinician.

Serious risks include severe photosensitivity reactions, infection of the treated site, persistent ulceration, and rare allergic contact dermatitis. Patients should be monitored closely for these events, and any signs of severe reaction should prompt immediate medical evaluation.

Metvix should not be used in individuals with known hypersensitivity to methyl aminolevulinate or any cream excipients, patients with porphyria, or those who cannot avoid light exposure after treatment. Contraindications are determined by the prescribing clinician.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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