General Description
Trioxsalen is a synthetic psoralen derivative, a furocoumarin, with the chemical structure 2,5,9-trimethyl-7H-furo[3,2-g][1]benzopyran-7-one. It is a white to off-white crystalline powder, practically insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. Trioxsalen is a photochemotherapeutic agent that, when activated by UVA radiation, binds to DNA.
Mechanism of Action
Trioxsalen intercalates into DNA and, upon exposure to UVA radiation (320-400 nm), forms covalent crosslinks between the drug and pyrimidine bases in the DNA. This inhibits DNA replication and transcription, leading to the suppression of cell proliferation and the reduction of epidermal turnover. The drug is highly effective in the treatment of hyperproliferative skin disorders.
Application
Trioxsalen is indicated for the treatment of vitiligo, psoriasis, and other disorders of skin pigmentation. It is used in combination with UVA radiation (PUVA therapy) to repigment the skin. The drug is effective in inducing repigmentation in patients with vitiligo, but its use is limited by the risk of phototoxicity and long-term risk of skin cancer.