Melanocyl Tablet (40 Tab)

MELANOCYL TABLET (40 TAB) by FRANCO-INDIAN PHARMACEUTICALS PVT. LTD.

Name: Melanocyl Tablet is a common brand name for this medication, manufactured by Franco-Indian Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd.

Composition: The active ingredient in Melanocyl Tablet is Methoxsalen (10 mg). Methoxsalen is an organic compound and a psoralen derivative.

Uses: Melanocyl Tablet is primarily used in conjunction with controlled ultraviolet-A (UVA) light therapy for the treatment of specific skin conditions. It is prescribed for:

• Vitiligo: A disorder characterized by the loss of skin pigment, resulting in discolored patches on the skin and hair. Melanocyl helps in repigmenting these affected areas and restoring skin tone.
• Psoriasis: A chronic skin condition that causes scaly, itchy, and red patches on the skin. It works by reducing the excessive production of skin cells.

Dosage and Administration: Melanocyl Tablet should be taken orally as prescribed by a doctor, preferably with a full stomach to improve absorption and reduce nausea. It is typically administered 2 hours before UV radiation exposure. Treatment usually involves taking the tablet two or three times a week, with at least 48 hours between each session. The specific dosage and duration depend on the individual's condition and response to the medicine. It is important to swallow the tablet whole and not chew, crush, or break it.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include skin redness (erythema), swelling (oedema), blisters, itching, and nausea. Other reported side effects can include dizziness, headache, rash, and low blood pressure. If side effects persist or worsen, medical consultation is advised.

Precautions:

• Melanocyl makes the skin highly sensitive to sunlight. Patients should avoid excessive sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen for at least 8 hours after treatment. UV-blocking sunglasses are also recommended.
• Inform your doctor about any allergies, history of skin cancer, eye disorders (e.g., cataracts), heart, liver, or kidney disease before starting treatment.
• It is unsafe to use during pregnancy and caution is advised for breastfeeding mothers.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it can worsen dizziness.
• Do not use perfumes, aftershave, deodorants, or other cosmetics before or after treatment, as they can increase skin sensitivity.
• Contraindications include known allergy to methoxsalen, severe sunburn, porphyria, lupus erythematosus, and use in children under 12 years of age.
• Overdosing can lead to severe skin redness, burning, and blistering.

Storage: Store Melanocyl Tablet in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it at a temperature between 15-30 degrees Celsius and out of reach of children and pets.

What is MELANOCYL TABLET used for?

MELANOCYL TABLET is primarily used in conjunction with controlled ultraviolet light-A (UVA) radiation for the treatment of certain skin conditions. These conditions include vitiligo, where the skin loses its natural color in patches, and psoriasis, characterized by scaly, itchy, and red patches on the skin. It helps to repigment discolored patches and reduce the scaly, itchy, and inflammatory symptoms of psoriasis.

How does MELANOCYL TABLET work?

MELANOCYL TABLET contains Methoxsalen, which is an organic compound and a photosensitizing agent. When taken, Methoxsalen becomes active upon exposure to UVA light. It works by altering how skin cells receive UVA radiation and by decreasing the number of cells the skin makes. This action helps to stimulate pigment production and repigment affected areas in vitiligo, and reduces excessive skin cell growth in psoriasis. This treatment method is often referred to as PUVA therapy (Psoralen + Ultraviolet A).

What is the usual dosage?

MELANOCYL TABLET should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dosage, frequency, and duration depend on your specific condition and how you respond to the medicine. It is typically taken with food or milk, usually 2 hours before UV radiation exposure. For conditions like vitiligo, it may be prescribed two or three times a week, with treatments spaced at least 48 hours apart. It is important to continue taking the medicine for the entire prescribed duration to achieve full benefits, which may take several months.

What are the possible side effects?

Common side effects of MELANOCYL TABLET include nausea, itching, and redness of the skin (erythema). Other possible side effects can include swelling (oedema), blisters, dizziness, headache, rash, and disturbed sleep. Most of these side effects are usually temporary and resolve over time. If side effects persist, worsen, or cause concern, contact your doctor immediately. Taking the medicine makes the skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of burning and blistering.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

MELANOCYL TABLET is generally considered unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. Limited information is available on its safe use in pregnant women, and it should not be consumed during pregnancy. For breastfeeding mothers, MELANOCYL TABLET should be used with caution, and its safety has not been established in nursing mothers. It is advisable to consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

Can it be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all other medications, herbal preparations, and supplements you are currently taking, as some may interact with MELANOCYL TABLET. Medicines that cause photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight) should generally not be given along with MELANOCYL TABLET, as it can have additive effects. Specific medications like anagrelide, clomipramine, pimozide, tegafur, tizanidine, vorasidenib, and warfarin may require dose adjustments or alternative precautions if taken concurrently.

What precautions should be taken?

Several precautions should be taken while using MELANOCYL TABLET:

• Sun Sensitivity: This medicine significantly increases skin sensitivity to the sun. You must use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and UV-blocking sunglasses when outdoors, especially for at least 8 to 24 hours after treatment.
• Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol as it can worsen dizziness, a potential side effect of the medicine.
• Cosmetics: Do not use perfumes, aftershave, deodorants, or other cosmetics, as they can make your skin even more sensitive.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any history of allergies, skin cancer, eye disorders (like aphakia or cataracts), heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, or skin pigment disorders.
• Driving: Since it can cause dizziness and sleepiness, avoid driving or activities requiring mental focus until you understand how the medicine affects you.
• Overdose: Never take more than the prescribed dose, as it can cause severe burning or blistering of the skin. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of MELANOCYL TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. It is important not to miss doses, as this can reduce the medicine's effectiveness.

How should it be stored?

MELANOCYL TABLET should be stored in a dry place, away from excessive heat or cold, and protected from light and moisture. The ideal storage temperature is typically between 15-30 degrees Celsius. Keep it out of reach of children and pets, and use the product before its expiry date.