Methoxsalen is now available in the United States after a shortage in summer 2010 during which patients and doctors only could import the drug from other countries that had a supply. Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, the manufacturer of the drug, issued this letter on June 16, 2010 to inform doctors that the drug is available again in the United States on a limited-supply basis. The company says it has been working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to address the drug shortage.

According to Valeant's letter, patients are able to obtain the prescription through their pharmacies, and physicians should instruct each pharmacy to work with its wholesalers to arrange for shipment.

If you have questions about this letter or need further guidance about obtaining this drug for your patients, email Director of Regulatory Policy Kelly Haenlein at khaenlein@aad.org, or call (202) 842-3555. The AAD's Science, Quality and Practice staff also is available to respond to questions at ppm@aad.org.