Aminolevulinic acid (topical)
Generic name: aminolevulinic acid (topical) [ a-MEE-noe-LEV-ue-LIN-ik-AS-id ]
Brand names: Ameluz, Levulan Kerastick
Dosage forms: topical gel (10%); topical solution (20%)
Drug class:Topical photochemotherapeutics
What is aminolevulinic acid?
Aminolevulinic acid causes skin cells to become more sensitive to certain types of light. Skin cells treated with aminolevulinic acid will die and slough off after being exposed to a special light treatment.
Aminolevulinic acid is used to treat actinic keratosis (warty overgrowths of skin) on the face and scalp. aminolevulinic acid is used together with a special light treatment, also called photodynamic therapy.
Aminolevulinic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Avoid exposure to sunlight or bright indoor light for up to 48 hours after this medicine is applied to your skin or scalp.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with aminolevulinic acid if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a soybean allergy; or
porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
How is aminolevulinic acid given?
A healthcare provider will apply aminolevulinic acid directly to your skin lesions to prepare you for light treatment.
Your face and scalp may need to be treated in separate sessions if you have actinic keratosis on both areas.
If you are treated with Ameluz gel:
The treated skin will be covered with a dressing to block out light.
After 3 hours, the dressing will be removed and light treatment will be applied to the lesions.
If you are treated with Levulan Kerastick solution:
You must return to your doctor's office within 14 to 18 hours afterward to receive light treatment.
Once the solution has been applied, keep the treated skin dry.
Do not wash the skin while waiting for your light treatment.
The photodynamic light has a low intensity and will not heat your skin. However, you may feel tingling, stinging, prickling, or burning where aminolevulinic acid was applied. This discomfort is usually temporary.
For up to 48 hours, you will need to protect your skin from bright light. Sunscreen will not be effective enough to protect you while this medicine is on your skin or scalp. Avoid exposure to both sunlight and bright indoor light. Wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors. If you feel stinging or burni...
