Drug Info:
Aminolevulinic Acid topical solution
To return to the main entry click here.
What is aminolevulinic acid topical solution?
AMINOLEVULINIC ACID (Levulan® Kerastick®) is a light sensitizing drug that is used in photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT is used to treat many types of conditions including actinic keratosis and certain types of skin cancer. PDT is a two-step process requiring application of a drug and then exposure to a certain type of light. Generic aminolevulinic acid topical solutions are not available.What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:• bleeding disorders
• conditions that make you sensitive to light or sunlight
• porphyria
• an unusual or allergic reaction to aminolevulinic acid, porphyrins, other medicines, foods (especially peanuts or almonds), dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Aminolevulinic acid is applied by a trained health care professional to affected areas on the face or scalp. This is the first step of photodynamic therapy (PDT). Fourteen to eighteen hours after application of this medicine, the treated area is exposed to a special blue light for about 17 minutes. Another course of treatment may be given after 8 weeks.What if I miss a dose?
It is important not to miss a scheduled appointment. The timing the application of the drug determines when the light treatment may be given. If you miss a scheduled appointment, contact your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible. If you are not exposed to the blue light, continue to avoid exposure to sunlight or prolonged bright light for at least 40 hours.What drug(s) may interact with aminolevulinic acid topical solution?
Aminolevulinic acid topical solution will make you sensitive to the sun. This effect may be increased by other medicines that also cause sensitivity to the sun such as:• griseofulvin
• medicines including sulfa or tetracycline antibiotics
• medicines for mental problems or psychotic disturbances
• some types of water pills (diuretics)
• vitamin A and vitamin A-like medicines and creams (examples: Accutane®, Solage®, Retin-A®, or Differin®)
• vitamin E
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines that you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking with aminolevulinic acid topical solution?
Aminolevulinic acid solution will cause your skin to be very sensitive light in areas where it is applied. You must avoid exposing treated areas to sunlight and bright indoor lights (unshaded light bulbs at close range) during the treatment period. Use a wide-brimmed hat or other protective clothing. Sunscreen will NOT work to protect your skin. If you are not exposed to the blue light, continue to avoid exposure to sunlight or prolonged bright light for at least 40 hours. If you begin to experience stinging and/or burning, decrease your exposure to light.During the second step of therapy, you be exposed to a blue light for about 17 minutes. This light will not heat the skin. You will receive goggles to protect your eyes. During exposure to the blue light you may experience stinging, burning, tingling, or prick-like feelings at the treated sites.
After treatment with the blue light, the treated areas and sometimes the surrounding skin will get red, swell, and may scale over. These effects should improve within 4 weeks of the treatment.
What side effects may I notice from using aminolevulinic acid topical solution?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:• blisters, redness, swelling of skin (similar to severe sunburn)
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
• burning or stinging
• crusting or scaling of lesions
• itching
• redness of treated areas
• sensitivity to the sun and other lights
• swelling of lesions
Where can I keep my medicine?
You will receive aminolevulinic acid in a clinic or hospital setting by trained health care providers. You will not take this medicine at home.Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
