5-Aminolevulinic Acid

Products

Aminolevulinic acid is commercially available as patches and gels (Alacare, Ameluz).

Structure and properties

The 5-aminolevulinic acid (C₅H₉NO₃, M_r = 131.1 g/mol) is a nonproteinogenic amino acid. It exists in the drug as a hydrochloride, a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water.

Effects

5-Aminolevulinic acid (ATC L01XD04) is phototoxic and causes destruction of diseased cells during photodynamic therapy. It is a prodrug that is metabolized in tissue to protoporphyrin IX. Protoporphyrin IX is the photoactive substance that is activated by red light. In the presence of oxygen, reactive oxygen species are formed, which damage the cells.

Indications

• Actinic keratoses.
• Superficial and/or nodular basal cell carcinoma.

Dosage

According to the professional information. The drugs are used in the context of photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity
• Previous treatment failure with 5-aminolevulinic acid.
• Porphyria
• Known photodermatoses
• Conditions triggered or exacerbated by exposure to sunlight.

Full precautions can be found in the drug label.

Interactions

Hypericin from St. John’s wort may increase adverse effects.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include local reactions such as an itching, burning, irritation, pain, and redness of the skin, with additional crusting and peeling of the skin after treatment.