Back to Ingredient Dictionary

AMINOLEVULINIC ACID PHOSPHATE

Description

Aminolevulinic acid phosphate is a prodrug of aminolevulinic acid (ALA), a critical component in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for various dermatological conditions. This compound is metabolized in the skin to protoporphyrin IX, a photosensitizing agent that becomes activated upon exposure to specific wavelengths of light. Its primary application is in the treatment of actinic keratoses, a precancerous skin condition, as well as certain types of non-melanoma skin cancers.

The phosphate form of aminolevulinic acid offers improved stability and enhanced skin penetration compared to its non-phosphorylated counterpart. This results in more efficient delivery of the active compound to target cells, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. When applied topically, aminolevulinic acid phosphate is preferentially absorbed by rapidly dividing cells, such as those found in precancerous and cancerous lesions.

The efficacy of aminolevulinic acid phosphate in PDT is well-documented, with studies demonstrating high clearance rates for actinic keratoses and superficial basal cell carcinomas. Side effects are generally mild and localized, including erythema, edema, and temporary photosensitivity. This ingredient represents a significant advancement in targeted dermatological therapies, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions for certain skin conditions.