Masoprocol (Actinex)

• Type of Drug: Antiproliferative.
• Prescribed for: Premalignant skin lesions usually associated with excessive exposure to the sun.

Masoprocol General Information

Masoprocol has an antiproliferative (growth-slowing) effect on cell cultures, but how this drug works on the skin is not known. It is prescribed to treat lesions where the horny layer of the skin grows at a much faster rate than the other skin layers. This condition, known as actinic keratosis, is thought to be a precursor to the development of skin cancer.

Cautions and Warnings

Do not cover Masoprocol cream with clear plastic wrap or another dressing that occludes (obstructs) the skin.
Masoprocol contains sulfites as preservatives. If you are allergic to sulfites, exposure to Masoprocol may cause hives, itching, wheezing, or anaphylactic shock (severe allergic reaction).

Masoprocol Possible Side Effects

Skin reactions to Masoprocol are common, but they usually resolve within 2 weeks after you start using the drug.

• Most common: skin redness and irritation, itching, dryness, flaking, swelling, burning, and soreness.
• Less common: bleeding, crusting, eye irritation, oozing, rash, stinging, tightness, and tingling.
• Rare: blistering, eczema, cuts or abrasions in the skin, cracking of the skin, a leathery feeling, wrinkling, and skin roughness.

Drug Interactions

Do not use other skin products or cosmetics when using Masoprocol.

Food Interactions

None known.

Usual Dose

Adult: wash and dry the areas to which Masoprocol cream is to be applied. Gently massage the cream into the affected areas until It is evenly distributed. Masoprocol should be used morning and night for 28 days.

Masoprocol Overdosage

Animals receiving high doses of Masoprocol developed liver and stomach problems. Anyone who swallows Masoprocol should be made to vomit with Syrup of Ipecac (available at any pharmacy) as soon as possible in order to remove existing material from the stomach. Call your local poison control center for more information and instructions. ALWAYS bring the medicine bottle if you go to a hospital emergency room for treatment.

Masoprocol Special Information

Masoprocol frequently causes allergic contact dermatitis (skin reaction). If this happens to you, stop using the cream and call your doctor.

If you apply Masoprocol directly with your fingers, you must thoroughly wash your hands after each application. Consider using disposable gloves to apply the cream.

You should be careful not to get Masoprocol into your eyes. If Masoprocol cream gets into your eyes, it must be washed out immediately with water.

You should avoid the sun if you are using this product. The lesions being treated are caused by excessive sun exposure and can only be worsened by continuing sun exposure.

Masoprocol cream may stain your skin, clothing, sheets, or furniture.

If you forget to apply a dose of Masoprocol, do so as soon as you remember. If it almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule.

Masoprocol Special Populations

Pregnancy/Breast-feeding
There is no reliable information about the effect of this drug on pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only when absolutely necessary.
It is not known if Masoprocol passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers should use this medicine with caution.

Seniors
Seniors may use this medication without special restriction.