The Web Health

Subscribe

Ameluz (topical)

Generic name: aminolevulinic acid (topical) [a-MEE-noe-LEV-ue-LIN-ik-AS-id]
The brand names: are Ameluz and Levulan Kerastick.
Drug class: topical photochemotherapeutics

What is Ameluz?

Ameluz can cause skin cells to be sensitive to certain kinds of light. Skin cells treated by this treatment are killed and then slough off following exposure to a specific treatment with light.Ameluz can be used for treating the condition known as actinic keratosis (warty growths of the skin) on the scalp and face. Ameluz is combined with a particular light therapy, which is also known as photodynamic therapy.Ameluz can also be used to treat conditions not covered in this medication guide.

Side effects of Ameluz

See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, like hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.Contact your doctor immediately for a serious burning or stinging that lasts for more than four weeks.

Common adverse effects of Ameluz can include:

  • Redness, pain, burning, or swelling on treated skin
  • Itching, stinging, tingling, or prickly feeling
  • The skin may be scaly or crusty. Skin
  • Headache;
  • Chills
  • Puffy eyes.

This isn't a comprehensive listing of all possible adverse consequences, but other effects may occur.. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. If you experience any side negative effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Do not expose yourself to bright indoor lights for up to 48 hours following the time Ameluz is applied to your scalp or skin.

Prior to use this drug

It is not recommended to treat Ameluz if you are allergic to it.

Inform your doctor if you were ever diagnosed with:

  • A soybean allergy to soybeans
  • Porphyria (a genetic disorder of enzymes that can cause symptoms in the skin or the nervous system).

Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.

How to take Ameluz (topical)?

A medical professional can apply Ameluz to the skin lesions in order to prepare you for a light treatment.Your scalp and face might require distinct sessions if you suffer from actinic keratosis on both of them.

If you're treated with Ameluz gel:

  • The treated skin can be covered in a dressing that blocks the light.
  • After three hours, the bandage will come off, and gentle treatment will be applied to the lesions.

If you're receiving treatment with Levulan Kerastick Solution:

  • You should return to the doctor's office within 14–18 hours following the appointment to receive a light treatment.
  • After the solution is applied, ensure that the skin is dry.
  • Do not wash your face as you wait for the mild treatment.

The light from the photodynamic source has a moderate intensity and will not cause skin heat. You may experience sensations of stinging, tingling, or burning wherever Ameluz has been applied. The discomfort usually subsides after a short time.For at least 48 hours, you'll need to shield your skin from the sun's rays. Sunscreen is not sufficient to shield your skin while the medication is applied to your scalp or skin. Avoid exposure to sunlight and bright light indoors. Wear protective clothing and a hat with wide brims while you're outdoors. If you experience burning sensations on the affected skin, decrease the amount of light exposure.There may be some swelling, redness, and scaling of your lesions as well as the skin around them. The symptoms should disappear completely in the space of 4 weeks.Contact your physician if you suffer from severe skin irritation or if you're experiencing any new or worsening skin conditions.If your lesions from actinic keratosis aren't completely cleared and you are in need of another treatment, Levulan Kerastick and light therapy are a possibility at the end of 8 weeks. Ameluz or light therapy may be repeated within 3 months.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Consult your physician. If you are unable to return for your treatment in the recommended 14–18 hours following the application of the Levulan Kerastick, It is crucial to know when you should apply the medication, and light therapy is crucial to the success of the treatment.

What happens if I overdose?

Because Ameluz is administered by a health expert in a medical environment, an overdose is not likely to occur.

What should be avoided?

Beware of exposure to bright indoor lights, at least for the duration of 48 hours. Put on a hat and dress in a way that covers your skin. Even if it has been a while since the appointment for light therapy, keep away from the bright lights for a period of 48 hours.Avoid other medications for the areas that are treated by Ameluz unless your physician tells you to.

Interaction with other drugs

Inform your doctor about the other medications you take. Certain drugs may cause you to be more sensitive to sunlight, particularly:

  • An anti-inflammatory or sulfa drug
  • Diuretic or "water pill";
  • Medication used to relieve vomiting and nausea;
  • Antipsychotic medications, also known as
  • An oral diabetes medicine.

This list isn't complete. Other medications can impact Ameluz, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. There are many possible interactions between drugs that are listed here.