5-Methoxypsoralen

Agent Name
5-Methoxypsoralen
CAS Number
484-20-8
Formula
C12-H8-O4
Major Category
Other Classes
5-Methoxypsoralen formula graphical representation
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]
Biomedical References

Adverse Effects

Hepatotoxin
Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion
Reproductive Toxin
Yes
Dermatotoxin
PICD (photoirritant contact dermatitis)
IARC Carcinogen
Probable (2a)

Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent: