Methyl Aminolevulinate Brand Name– Metvixia
What is Methyl Aminolevulinate
Methyl aminolevulinate, a pro-drug, is the methyl ester of 5-Aminolevulinic acid, a photosensitizing agent.
Methyl aminolevulinate is more lipophilic than it’s acid, 5-aminolevulinic acid, resulting in greater tissue penetration. 5-aminolevulinic acid is an endogenous 5-carbon aminoketone and a precursor to the photosensitizing compound, protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). PpIX is a potent photosensitizer and has a high fluorescent yield when used with photodynamic therapy.
Topical application of methyl aminolevulinate followed by exposure to an activating light has been used in the treatment of dermatologic disorders including actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma.
The FDA approved methyl aminolevulinate topical cream in July 2004 for the treatment of non-hyperkeratotic actinic keratosis of the face or scalp. In June 2008, the FDA approved the use of the Aktilite CL128 lamp in combination with methyl aminolevulinate.
Methyl aminolevulinate is not indicated for treatment of actinic keratosis located on areas other than the face or scalp.
Indications
- actinic keratosis
- basal cell carcinoma
For the treatment of non-hyperkeratotic actinic keratosis lesions of the scalp or face
NOTE: Methyl aminolevulinate cream is intended for topical use in the physician’s office by trained healthcare professionals only.
Side Effects
- angioedema
- contact dermatitis
- edema
- erythema
- headache
- infection
- keratitis
- macular edema
- new primary malignancy
- photosensitivity
- pruritus
- skin erosion
- skin hyperpigmentation
- skin irritation
- urticaria
Monitoring Parameters
- laboratory monitoring not necessary
Contraindications
- accidental exposure
- breast-feeding
- children
- coagulopathy
- immunosuppression
- ocular exposure
- peanut hypersensitivity
- porphyria
- porphyrin hypersensitivity
- pregnancy
- skin photosensitivity disorder
- sunlight (UV) exposure
Interactions
There are no drug interactions associated with Methyl Aminolevulinate products.
