5-Methoxypsoralen

Synonyms

4-Methoxy-7H-furo(3,2-g)(1)benzopyran-7-one; 5-Methoxy psoralen; 5-Methoxy-6,7-furanocoumarin; 5-MOP; 6-Hydroxy-4-methoxy-5-benzofuranacrylic acid, gamma-lactone; 7H-Furo(3,2-g)(1)benzopyran-7-one, 4-methoxy-; Bergaptan; Bergapten; Bergaptene; Heraclin; Majudin; Psoraderm; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Other Organic Compounds

Description

Grayish-white or yellow solid; [CAMEO] White powder; [MSDSonline]

Sources/Uses

Used to promote tanning in suntan preparations and to treat psoriasis; Present in some perfumes, fragrances, sunscreen preparations, and food products (as a component of bergamot oil); [HSDB]

Comments

A phototoxic agent; Emergency treatment: "Psoralens"; Combining psoralens and UV light is called PUVA therapy; Therapeutic doses are 0.6 mg/kg; Toxic hepatitis has been reported after PUVA therapy; [HSDB] An irritant; Effects in high-dose animal studies include, convulsions, photosensitivity (after systemic exposure), and hepatitis; May cause cancer; May cause heritable genetic damage; [MSDSonline]

Reference Link #1

Biomedical References

Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion

Yes

PICD (photoirritant contact dermatitis)

Probable (2a)

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Contact dermatitis, photoirritant