PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY DRUGS

PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY DRUGS began being used in the 1900's with naturally found dyes. These were combined with natural light, and partially effective therapies and results were starting to unfold. Systemic hematoporphyrins began being used, however, due to too many side effects, they were seen as impractical, and there use faded. Subsequently, topical aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA, and met-ALA) was found, and seen to be tolerable and convenient for use as a photodynamic drug.