Women's Health

Methoxsalen Oral Capsule (METHOXSALEN (RAPID) - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • psoriasis
  • skin discoloration
  • cancer

Generic Name: Methoxsalen

Instructions

Take with low-fat food or milk.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

You may take with food to prevent stomach upset.

Taking with food helps to improve absorption and reduces stomach upset.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

Wear wrap-around sunglasses for 24 hours after each treatment to reduce the risk of damage to the eyes.

Avoid sunlight, both outdoors and through windows, for at least 8 hours after using medicine. If not possible, wear protective clothing (long sleeves, hat, gloves, long pants) and use sunscreen that blocks UVA light.

Do not apply sunscreen to areas being treated by UVA light until after the treatment is completed.

To avoid severe sunburn, do not sunbathe for at least 24 hours before and 48 hours after treatment.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.

Cautions

This medicine is not recommended for use in children younger than 12.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • itching
  • nausea
  • dry skin
  • change in skin color
  • darkening of the skin

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • depression or feeling sad
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • nail color changes
  • pain or bleeding in a nail
  • nervousness
  • blistering or peeling of the skin
  • skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
  • change in the size or color of a skin mole
  • skin sores
  • thinning of the skin
  • sudden change or loss of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.