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Metvix and natural daylight PDT

Galderma R&D · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Metvix and natural daylight PDT is a Photosensitizing agent Small molecule drug developed by Galderma R&D. It is currently in Phase 3 development for Actinic keratosis (field treatment with daylight PDT), Non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).

Metvix (methyl aminolevulinate) is a photosensitizing agent that accumulates in abnormal skin cells and is activated by natural daylight to generate reactive oxygen species that destroy lesions.

Metvix (methyl aminolevulinate) is a photosensitizing agent that accumulates in abnormal skin cells and is activated by natural daylight to generate reactive oxygen species that destroy lesions. Used for Actinic keratosis (field treatment with daylight PDT), Non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).

At a glance

Generic nameMetvix and natural daylight PDT
SponsorGalderma R&D
Drug classPhotosensitizing agent
TargetProtoporphyrin IX (via aminolevulinic acid pathway)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology/Dermatology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Metvix is a prodrug that penetrates into dysplastic and malignant skin cells where it is converted to protoporphyrin IX, a photosensitizer. When exposed to natural daylight (rather than artificial light sources), the accumulated protoporphyrin IX is activated to produce singlet oxygen and free radicals that cause selective destruction of the abnormal tissue. This daylight-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) approach offers improved tolerability and convenience compared to traditional PDT with artificial lamps.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about Metvix and natural daylight PDT

What is Metvix and natural daylight PDT?

Metvix and natural daylight PDT is a Photosensitizing agent drug developed by Galderma R&D, indicated for Actinic keratosis (field treatment with daylight PDT), Non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).

How does Metvix and natural daylight PDT work?

Metvix (methyl aminolevulinate) is a photosensitizing agent that accumulates in abnormal skin cells and is activated by natural daylight to generate reactive oxygen species that destroy lesions.

What is Metvix and natural daylight PDT used for?

Metvix and natural daylight PDT is indicated for Actinic keratosis (field treatment with daylight PDT), Non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).

Who makes Metvix and natural daylight PDT?

Metvix and natural daylight PDT is developed by Galderma R&D (see full Galderma R&D pipeline at /company/galderma-r-d).

What drug class is Metvix and natural daylight PDT in?

Metvix and natural daylight PDT belongs to the Photosensitizing agent class. See all Photosensitizing agent drugs at /class/photosensitizing-agent.

What development phase is Metvix and natural daylight PDT in?

Metvix and natural daylight PDT is in Phase 3.

What are the side effects of Metvix and natural daylight PDT?

Common side effects of Metvix and natural daylight PDT include Phototoxic reaction (erythema, edema), Burning or stinging sensation, Crusting or scaling, Photosensitivity.

What does Metvix and natural daylight PDT target?

Metvix and natural daylight PDT targets Protoporphyrin IX (via aminolevulinic acid pathway) and is a Photosensitizing agent.

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