Methoxsalen, also known as 8-Methoxypsoralen (8-MOP), is a psoralen-class pharmaceutical compound used as a photosensitizing agent in controlled phototherapy and photochemotherapy. It is used in combination with ultraviolet-A (UVA) exposure in specific dermatological treatment protocols.
Methoxsalen becomes photoactivated following UVA exposure and interacts with cellular DNA. This photochemical activity can inhibit DNA synthesis and cellular proliferation, contributing to its therapeutic effects in selected dermatological conditions.
Methoxsalen is supplied as an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) for qualified pharmaceutical manufacturing, formulation development, analytical testing and research applications.
Methoxsalen is photoactivated by UVA radiation. The activated molecule interacts with DNA and can form photoadducts and cross-links. These effects can interfere with DNA replication and cellular proliferation.
Methoxsalen is associated with:
The approved indication and administration route depend on the specific pharmaceutical product and applicable regulatory jurisdiction.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or crystals |
| Identification | IR & HPLC compliant |
| Assay (HPLC) | 98.0% – 102.0% |
| Loss on Drying | NMT 2.0% |
| Residue on Ignition | NMT 0.5% |
| Individual Impurity | NMT 0.5% |
| Water Content | NMT 2.0% |
| Melting Point | Approximately 148–150 °C |