Methoxsalen
Also known as: 8-Methoxypsoralens
Description
Methoxsalen is a naturally-occurring photoactive Furocoumarin (Psoralen). It is used as a Pharmaceutical Drug.
Therapeutic Uses of Methoxsalen
Skin
Methoxsalen is used for the treatment of Psoriasis as part of PUVA photochemotherapy (i.e. oral Methoxsalen in combination with UV-A exposure).
Methoxsalen Enhances the Function of these Substances
Enzymes
Methoxsalen inhibits the activity of Cytochrome P-450 CYP2A6.
Methoxsalen Counteracts these Toxic Substances
Recreational Drugs
Methoxsalen helps Tobacco smokers to “quit” smoking. This occurs from the ability of Methoxsalen to inhibit the Cytochrome P-450 CYP2A6 enzyme which catalyzes the conversion of Nicotine to its metabolite Cotinine. Inhibiting the conversion of Nicotine to Cotinine results in Nicotine remaining active in the bloodstream for longer periods, reducing the desire to smoke. By inhibiting the Cytochrome P-450 CYP2A6 enzyme, Methoxsalen also inhibits the conversion of procarcinogens in Tobacco smoke into their active carcinogenic forms. [1]
Dietary Sources of Methoxsalen
Methoxsalen is a constituent of the Ammi (Ammi majus from the Umbelliferae family) plant.
Chemical Data
9-methoxy-7H-furo[3,2-g][1]-benzopyran-7-one
This is one of more than 5,000 interlinked topics in the Green Medicine Encyclopedia.
Explore the full encyclopedia free