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8-Mop

Generic name: methoxsalen (oral) [ meth-OX-a-len ]
Brand names: 8-Mop, Oxsoralen-Ultra
Drug class: Psoralens

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 7, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is 8-Mop?

8-Mop works by enhancing the body's sensitivity to ultraviolet light A (UVA).

8-Mop is used in combination with UVA light therapy to treat severe psoriasis.

8-Mop can cause harmful effects on your vision and on your skin (premature aging or skin cancer). 8-Mop is used only for severe psoriasis that has not improved with other treatments. You must remain under the care of a doctor while taking this medicine.

8-Mop may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

8-Mop side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

8-Mop may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Mild skin redness may occur and can last for 1 or 2 days. This is a normal side effect after UVA treatment and may not be a sign of severe sunburn. Ask your doctor if you have concerns about any redness or swelling.

Common side effects of 8-Mop may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

You should not use 8-Mop if you are sensitive to light, if you have lens damage in your eye, or if you have had skin cancer.

8-Mop can cause harmful effects on your vision and on your skin. You must avoid natural sunlight for up to 48 hours after UVA treatment.

Oxsoralen-Ultra and 8-Mop are not equivalent medicines and may not have the same dosing schedule.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use 8-Mop if you are allergic to 8-Mop or similar medicines, or if you have:

Before your UVA treatment: Do not expose your skin to sunlight for at least 24 hours before you take 8-Mop. Avoid applying sunscreen to areas of psoriasis that will be treated with UVA therapy.

You may need to have your eyes examined before you start taking 8-Mop.

To make sure 8-Mop is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

It is not known whether 8-Mop taken orally will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It may not be safe to breast-feed a baby while you are using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risks.

How should I take 8-Mop?

You may need to have your eyes examined first.

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

8-Mop doses are based on weight. Tell your doctor if you gain or lose weight.

You will take 8-Mop a certain number of hours before you are scheduled to receive UVA treatment. Soft gelatin capsules (Oxsoralen-Ultra) are more easily absorbed than hard gelatin capsules (8-Mop). The timing of your dose will depend on the type of capsule you are taking.

You may need to keep taking 8-Mop for a short time after UVA treatment. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Take this medicine with low-fat food or milk if it upsets your stomach.

If your doctor changes your brand, strength, or type of methoxsalen, your dose needs and UVA light therapy schedule may change. Oxsoralen-Ultra and 8-Mop are not equivalent medicines and may not have the same dosing schedule.

8-Mop will make you more sensitive to sunlight, which can cause harmful effects on your vision and on your skin (premature aging or skin cancer).

For at least 8 hours after you take 8-Mop:

For 24 to 48 hours after you receive UVA treatment:

You may develop cataracts if you do not properly protect your eyes after 8-Mop and UVA treatment.

Follow your doctor's instructions about applying topical psoriasis medications or any moisturizing lotions after your 8-Mop and UVA treatment.

Check your skin regularly for signs of skin cancer, such as a small growth or nodule, a scaly or crusted lesion, a brownish spot or speckles, or a change in the size, color, or feel of a mole. You may need to check your skin for signs of cancer throughout the rest of your life.

Store 8-Mop at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you did not take 8-Mop at the correct time before your scheduled UVA treatment. You may need to reschedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. You may be instructed to make yourself vomit and stay in a dark room for 24 hours. You will be extremely sensitive to light after an overdose.

What should I avoid while taking 8-Mop?

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays other than your scheduled light therapy treatments.

What other drugs will affect 8-Mop?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using. 8-Mop can make your skin even more sensitive to sunlight if you also use certain other medicines, especially:

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with methoxsalen, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.