<i>L</i>-Phenylalanine and UVA Irradiation in the Treatment of Vitiligo

Abstract

In order to evaluate the efficacy of L-phenylalanine (L-Phe) in combination with UVA therapy for vitiligo an open trial (149 patients, 18 months) and a small double-blind trial (32 patients, 6 months) were conducted. Oral L-Phe loading resulted in peak plasma levels of L-Phe after 30–60 min and a slight increase in the plasma tyrosine level. Response to L-Phe plus UVA irradiation was positive, and various grades of repigmentation not exceeding 77% in the open and 60% in the blind trial were observed. An increased L-Phe dose resulted in increased L-Phe plasma levels but not in improved clinical results. The optimal L-Phe dose appears to be lower than 50 mg/kg/day. Although it is difficult to draw firm conclusions from the present investigation, we think that L-Phe may have a place in the treatment of vitiligo and its role merits further investigation.

Combination of PUVAsol and Topical Calcipotriol in Vitiligo

“…Variable results have been reported with a new photochemotherapeutic regimen using khellin, a furanochromone, as photosensitizer together with UVA radiation [1]. Similar results have been reported with oral and topical phenylalanine with UVA exposure [2, 3]. Recently a new topical treatment concept has been developed by Schallreuter et al [4]using pseudocatalase in combination with 10 –2 M calcium and short-term UVB exposure.…”

Vitiligo: A comprehensive overview

“…The response rates for oral L-phe are up to 81% using sunlight alone (in the Caribbean), 111 while repigmentation rates vary between 50% and 100%. [112][113][114] Adding topical L-phe to oral L-phe and light therapy is even more beneficial. 115,116 Facial lesions respond best.…”

Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Vitiligo

“…There is moderate evidence that L-phenylalanine has efficacy as an adjunct to phototherapy. Lphenylalanine plus UVA (50-100 mg/kg + UVA twice weekly 30-45 min after ingestion) provided better results than L-phenylalanine alone (Siddiqui et al, 1994). However, some adverse events have been attributed to L-phenylalanine (Rosenbach et al, 1993).…”