Photosan

Photosan is a porphyrin-based photosensitizer, specifically a mixture of hematoporphyrin derivatives (polyhematoporphyrin), used primarily in photodynamic therapy (PDT). It is designed to accumulate selectively in malignant or rapidly proliferating tissues following intravenous or topical administration. Upon exposure to red light of a specific wavelength (typically 625–635 nm), the drug undergoes a photochemical reaction that generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), most notably singlet oxygen. These ROS cause localized cytotoxic damage through cellular apoptosis, necrosis, and the disruption of the tumor microvasculature. Photosan has been investigated and used for various oncological indications, including bile duct cancer, malignant intracranial tumors, and head and neck cancers, as well as for antimicrobial applications in dentistry.

Brand names

PhotosanPhotosan-3Photosan3Photosan 3

Other names

polyhematoporphyrinhematoporphyrin derivativeHpD