Psoralens
- CAS No.
- Chemical Name:
- Psoralens
- Synonyms
- Psoralens
- CBNumber:
- CB31306171
- Molecular Formula:
- Molecular Weight:
- 0
- MDL Number:
- MOL File:
- Mol file
Psoralens Chemical Properties,Uses,Production
Indications
Psoralens form covalent linkages with pyrimidine bases in DNA when exposed to light of the appropriate wavelength, and if oxygen is present, reactive oxygen species also are generated. Although inhibition of DNA replication may account for some of the beneficial effects of PUVA therapy in certain hyperproliferative disorders such as psoriasis, PUVA has other important biological effects.
Pharmacology
Orally administered psoralens are rapidly absorbed (maximum photosensitivity for the most common preparation, 8-methoxypsoralen [Oxsoralen Ultra], is 1–1.5 hours). Although the elimination half-life is 2.2 hours, the skin remains photosensitive for 8 to 12 hours. Most excretion is renal, and the drug does not accumulate. It can be absorbed if applied topically, and after application to the entire body, therapeutic plasma levels can be detected.
Clinical Use
It suppresses contact hypersensitivity and may evoke other immunological changes by affecting T lymphocytes and epidermal Langerhans cells. It increases melanin pigmentation in the skin and is useful in treating vitiligo. PUVA also inhibits mast cell release of inflammatory mediators.