Soralen Ds Tab

SORALEN DS TAB

Name

Common Name: Soralen DS Tablet Brand Name: SORALEN DS TAB by MEDMANOR-GLORIA SPECIALITY (also referred to as Med Manor Organics Pvt Ltd)

Composition

The active ingredient in SORALEN DS TAB is Trioxsalen 25 mg.

Uses

SORALEN DS TAB is a photosensitizer medicine primarily used for the treatment of Vitiligo, and sometimes Psoriasis, in conjunction with ultraviolet A (UVA) light therapy. In Vitiligo, it works by activating certain skin cells (melanocytes) to help re-pigment discolored and white patches of skin. For Psoriasis, it helps to reduce the overproduction of skin cells, thereby alleviating scaly, itchy patches and inflammation.

Dosage and Administration

SORALEN DS TAB should be taken as advised by your physician, with the dose and course determined by your health condition. It is typically taken 20 to 40 mg, two to four hours before ultraviolet light A (UVA) exposure. To prevent stomach upset and increase absorption, it should be taken with meals or milk. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. After taking the medicine, it is crucial to avoid sun exposure, even through a window, for at least 8 hours.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Erythema (skin redness)
• Blisters on the skin
• Oedema (swelling)
• Itching
• Irritation
• Nausea

Serious Side Effects (rare):

• Blistering and peeling of the skin
• Red or sore skin
• Swelling of feet or lower legs
• Severe sunburn
• Signs of skin cancer (e.g., sores that do not heal, new or changing moles)
• Premature skin aging
• Cataracts (after prolonged use)

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Trioxsalen or any other ingredients.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with allergies to sunlight, porphyria, heart disease, liver diseases, stomach problems, cataracts, skin cancers, active autoimmune diseases, or lupus erythematosus.
• Sun Sensitivity: This medication makes the skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and UVA. Avoid sun exposure during and for at least eight hours (or up to forty-eight hours) after each dose. Wear protective clothing, UVA-absorbing wraparound sunglasses, and use a sunblock with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in pregnant women. The safety and effectiveness in breastfeeding women have not been established, and it should be used only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Pediatric Use: Not recommended for children and adolescents less than 12 years of age.
• Geriatric Use: Use with caution in elderly patients.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking. Avoid alcohol and foods such as limes, figs, celery, parsnips, carrots, parsley, or mustard, as they can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness; exercise caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Other: Inform your physician if you have had recent X-ray treatment or plans for X-rays in the near future.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, preferably between 10°C to 25°C or below 30°C. Keep it away from direct sunlight and out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

SORALEN DS TAB, containing Trioxsalen, is a photosensitive medication primarily used in conjunction with ultraviolet A (UV-A) light therapy for certain skin conditions. It works by increasing the skin's sensitivity to light, which aids in repigmentation and moderating skin cell growth.

What is SORALEN DS TAB used for?

SORALEN DS TAB is used in the treatment of vitiligo and psoriasis. In vitiligo, it helps to re-pigment discolored, white patches on the skin, hair, and mucous membranes. For psoriasis, it aids in reducing the rapid growth of skin cells, thereby alleviating scaling and thickening of the skin.

How does SORALEN DS TAB work?

This medicine contains trioxsalen, a photosensitizing agent. When taken and subsequently exposed to UV-A rays, it activates certain skin cells called melanocytes, which are responsible for producing skin pigment. In vitiligo, this process helps restore color to affected areas. In psoriasis, it helps to slow down the excessive proliferation of skin cells.

What is the usual dosage for SORALEN DS TAB?

The usual recommended dose for adults and children 12 years of age and over is 20 to 40 mg, taken two to four hours before UV-A exposure. However, the exact dose, duration, and frequency of treatment will be determined by your physician based on your age, body weight, and health condition. It is often recommended to take it with meals or milk to help prevent stomach upset and improve absorption. SORALEN DS TAB is generally not recommended for use in children under 12 or 14 years.

What are the possible side effects of SORALEN DS TAB?

Common side effects include itching, irritation, nausea, erythema (skin redness), blisters on the skin, edema (swelling), rash, dizziness, and headache. More serious, though rare, side effects can include severe sunburn, significant blistering and peeling of the skin, and an increased risk of premature skin aging and cataracts with prolonged use. There is also a potential increased risk of skin cancer (including melanoma) after long-term therapy. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your physician.

Is SORALEN DS TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

SORALEN DS TAB is generally not recommended for use in pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy. For breastfeeding women, the safety and effectiveness have not been established. It should only be used if recommended by a doctor, who will weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Your doctor may advise temporarily stopping breastfeeding during treatment.

Can SORALEN DS TAB be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as SORALEN DS TAB can interact with other medications. Specifically, other photosensitizing medicines (e.g., tetracyclines, phenothiazines) should be used with caution. Certain foods like limes, figs, celery, parsnips, carrots, parsley, or mustard can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and should be avoided. Interaction with alcohol is unknown, but it is advisable to consult your doctor if you consume alcohol frequently.

What precautions should be taken while using SORALEN DS TAB?

You should use this medicine with caution if you have allergies (especially to trioxsalen or sunlight), porphyria, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, stomach problems, cataracts, skin cancer (or a family history of it), lupus erythematosus, or active autoimmune disease. It is also advised to be cautious if you have recently undergone X-ray treatment or are planning to. Due to the medicine making your skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and UV-A rays, you must avoid sun exposure for at least 8 hours after taking a dose. When outdoors, wear protective clothing, use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher) on exposed skin, and wear wraparound sunglasses that block all UV-A/UV-B rays. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness.

What happens if a dose of SORALEN DS TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects. Consult your doctor for specific advice if a dose is missed.

How should SORALEN DS TAB be stored?

SORALEN DS TAB should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC, in its original package to protect it from light and moisture. It should be kept in a cool, dry place and out of the sight and reach of children and pets.