Aminolevulinic Acid topical 

What is this medicine? 

AMINOLEVULINIC ACID (a MEE noe LEV ue LIN ik AS id) is a light sensitizing drug that  is used in photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT is used to treat many types of skin conditions including  actinic keratosis and certain types of  skin cancer. PDT is a two-step process  that requires application of a drug and then  exposure to a certain type  of light. 

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions. 

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 use this medicine? 

In  the first step of photodynamic therapy (PDT), the medicine is applied  by a trained health care professional to the affected areas of the skin. Fourteen  to eighteen hours after application of the medicine,  the treated area is exposed  to a special blue light for about 17 minutes. The  treatment may  be repeated in 8 weeks. 

Talk  to your pediatrician regarding  the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. 

Over dosage:  If  you think  you have taken too much  of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. 

NOTE: This medicine is only  for you. Do not share  this medicine with others. 

What if I miss a dose? 

It is important not to miss a scheduled appointment. The timing of the application of the drug determines when the light treatment  may be given. If you miss a scheduled appointment, contact  your doctor 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 may interact  with this medicine?

This medicine will make you sensitive to the sun. This effect may be increased by other medicines that also cause sensitivity to the sun such as: 

• certain diuretics 
• griseofulvin
• medicines including sulfa or tetracycline antibiotics 
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances 
• vitamin A and vitamin A-like medicines and creams 
• vitamin E 

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.