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NCI Drug Dictionary

aminolevulinic acidPatient Information
A topically administered metabolic precursor of protoporphyrin IX. After topical administration, aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is converted to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) which is a photosensitizer. When the proper wavelength of light activates protoporphyrin IX, singlet oxygen is produced, resulting in a local cytotoxic effect. Check for active clinical trials or closed clinical trials using this agent. (NCI Thesaurus)

Synonyms:5-Aminolaevulinic Acid
5-Aminolevulinic Acid
Amino-Levulinic Acid
Delta Aminolevulinic Acid
US brand name:Levulan
Abbreviations:5-ALA
ALA
Chemical structure names:
  • 5-Amino-4-oxopentanoic Acid
  • d-Amino-Levulinic Acid

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