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These notes are intended to provide you with information about your treatment. The entire notes should be read so that you are aware of the requirements on your part to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the therapy. Any additional questions that you may have can be answered by your doctor, or pharmacist or the clinic staff.

 What is "PUVA"?

"PUVA" is the name of a skin treatment and stands for the use of Psoralen drug (Puvasoralen) in combination with ultraviolet A light. Several different skin diseases have been treated effectively with PUVA.

 What is the UVA Light?

Light is classified into many different wavelengths or parts. One part is known as ultraviolet light which is a normal component of sunlight. Artificial light sources are now available that produce ultraviolet ‘A’.

 What should you do before PUVA Therapy?

Certain other medicines can make you more sensitive to the PUVA treatment. In addition some medical conditions can be aggravated by PUVA. Before starting therapy be sure to tell your doctor or clinic staff, if any of the following apply to you:-

1)         had a severe reaction to puvasoralen in the past

2)         had recent X-Ray treatment or are planning any

3)         have, or ever had, skin cancer

4)         have, or ever had, any eye problems such as cataracts or loss of the lens of the eyes     

5)         have, or ever had, liver problems

6)         have, or ever had, heart or blood pressure problems,

7)         have any medical condition that requires you to stay out of the sun

8)         are taking ANY drugs (either prescription or bought over the counter). We are happy to check that they are suitable to take in conjunction with your PUVA treatment.

9)         Please do not use any ointments or creams, coal-tar products or perfumed soaps and toiletries on the day of treatment. (Do not use Coal-Tar preparations for at least 24 hours prior to PUVA). This is because some perfumes and medicines contain chemicals which increase light sensitivity, and might lead to a “sunburn effect" following PUVA treatment. Once you have had your treatment you can then apply your ointments or creams.

10)       Before you start your PUVA therapy you will be asked to have some blood tests. These may be repeated during your treatment.

11)            Photosensitivity tests may also be carried out.   (These will be read 3 days later - so please be sure you can attend the 2nd appointment before having the tests). The first PUVA treatment may be carried out at this visit.

How should you take Puvasoralen tablets?

1)         The number of tablets recommended by your doctor should be taken with food or milk, one and a half hours before PUVA, unless otherwise directed.

2)            Puvasoralen is a potent drug.  Never take more than is prescribed for you since it may result in burning and/or blistering of your skin after exposure to ultraviolet light.

 How should you protect yourself from light during and after PUVA therapy?

 1)      Eye protection - Eye protection is very important. If the instuctions below are not followed carefully, permanent damage to your eyes may occur i.e. cataract formation. Approved eye protection must be worn for 24 hours from time of taking tablets. Sun light, daylight, neon lights without diffusers, even light through a window can cause the above to happen.

2)         Skin and Lip protection - Do not expose skin and lips to sunlight or sun lamps for 24 hours after taking the tablets. Avoid sitting near a window as UVA can pass through glass. You may be more sensitive to sunlight for 2- 3 days.

3)         In sunny conditions use a sunblock/high SPF sunscreen on light exposed areas of the skin following your treatment.

4)         If your face is unaffected by your skin ailment and/or your face is protected during treatment then apply a sunblock/high SPF sunscreen after taking the psoralen tablets.

5)          Please wear Long sleeved clothing and a wide brimmed hat to protect your skin and head on treatment days. There is a very real risk of burning from the sun due to your skin being sensitive to the sun’s rays.

 How long will treatment last?

It may take several weeks before your skin condition improves. You may need further PUVA treatment to keep the disease under control. Please remember that it is important to attend both promptly and regularly.

 What are the possible side-effects?

1)         The most common side-effects of PUVA therapy are nausea, itching, and redness of the skin. Taking the drug with food or milk may prevent the nausea.

2)            Tenderness or blistering of the skin may occur, but can be helped by products recommended by your doctor, pharmacist, or the clinic staff.

3)         Less frequent side-effects include depression, dizziness, headache, swelling or rash.

 Important:           Contact your doctor or the PUVA clinic if any side-effect continues to bother             you after 24-48 hours.

What else should you know?

1)            Remember to take Puvasoralen as directed by your doctor. If you forget to take the drug before your scheduled treatment be sure to telephone the clinic staff for advice.

2)         It is a good idea to use a bland moisturiser whist you are undergoing PUVA therapy.