Metvix

Methyl Aminolevulinate, the active ingredient in Metvix, is a photosensitizer (photodynamic therapy agent) formulated as a 160 mg/g cream for topical application. It is prescribed for the treatment of actinic keratosis on the face and scalp in adult patients, primarily in the EU market.

GNH USA supplies Metvix as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies, clinics and research institutions worldwide, providing regulated bulk and unit‑dose shipments under appropriate import and quality‑assurance protocols and to meet local regulatory requirements.

Metvix is used in dermatology for the photodynamic treatment of precancerous skin lesions. - Actinic keratosis of the face: clears visible lesions and reduces the risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma. - Actinic keratosis of the scalp: achieves selective destruction of dysplastic cells, improving skin appearance. - Field cancerization on sun‑exposed areas: treats multiple subclinical lesions within a treated field, providing broader skin protection.

Metvix may cause local and systemic adverse reactions, most of which are related to the photodynamic process.

Common Side Effects: - Application site erythema: redness at the treated area. - Pain or burning sensation: discomfort during or after illumination. - Edema: swelling of the treated skin. - Crusting or scaling: formation of crusts as lesions heal. - Skin discoloration: temporary hyperpigmentation at the treatment site.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe photosensitivity reaction: extensive skin inflammation beyond the treated area. - Infection of treated sites: bacterial colonisation requiring medical attention. - Hypersensitivity: systemic allergic response such as urticaria or angioedema. - Persistent ulceration: non‑healing wound requiring medical intervention.

Before using Metvix, clinicians should consider several safety and handling precautions. - Patient selection: limit use to adults with diagnosed actinic keratosis of the face or scalp. - Sun exposure: avoid direct sunlight on the treated area for at least 48 hours after illumination. - Light protection: advise patients to wear protective clothing and sunglasses during and after treatment. - Concomitant photosensitizers: discontinue other photosensitizing drugs (e.g., tetracyclines) before therapy. - Pregnancy and lactation: avoid use as safety data are lacking. - Store at room temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original container, protected from light and moisture.

Metvix can interact with other agents that affect photosensitivity or heme synthesis.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Tetracycline antibiotics: increase photosensitivity and may exacerbate skin reactions. - Retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin): enhance cutaneous sensitivity to light.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): may modestly increase photosensitivity. - Antifungal agents (e.g., ketoconazole): potential additive irritation at the application site. - Herbal supplements (e.g., St. John’s wort): may affect the phototoxic response and should be reviewed before treatment.