5-Methoxypsoralen A Review of its Effects in Psoriasis and Vitiligo

Sources: Medical literature published in any language since 1966 on 5-methoxypsoralen, identified using AdisBase (a proprietary database of Adis International, Auckland, New Zealand), Medline and EMBASE. Additional references were identified from the reference lists of published articles. Bibliographical information, including contributory unpublished data, was also requested from the company developing the drug. Search strategy: AdisBase search terms were ‘5-methoxypsoralen’, ‘5-MOP’, ‘bergapten’ and ‘skin disorders’. Medline and EMBASE search terms were ‘5-methoxypsoralen’, ‘5-MOP’ and ‘bergapten’. Searches were last updated 23 July 1998. Selection: Studies in patients with psoriasis or vitiligo who received oral or topical 5-methoxypsoralen. Inclusion of studies was based mainly on the methods section of the trials. When available, large, well controlled trials with appropriate statistical methodology were preferred. Relevant pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic data are also included. Index terms: 5-Methoxypsoralen, psoriasis, vitiligo, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, therapeutic use.