Methyl aminolevulinate is a prodrug that is metabolised to Protoporphyrin IX (a photosensitizer) used in photodynamic therapy. Photosensitization following application of methyl aminolevulinate cream occurs through the metabolic conversion of methyl aminolevulinate (prodrug) to photoactive porphyrins (PAP), which accumulates in the skin lesions to which the cream has been applied. When exposed to light of appropriate wavelength and energy, the accumulated photoactive porphyrins produce a photodynamic reaction, resulting in a cytotoxic process dependent upon the simultaneous presence of oxygen. The absorption of light results in an excited state of porphyrin molecules, and subsequent spin transfer from photoactive porphyrins to molecular oxygen generates singlet oxygen, which can further react to form superoxide and hydroxyl radicals. Methyl aminolevulinate is used for topical use, in combination with 570 to 670 nm wavelength red light illumination, in the treatment of non-hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses of the face and scalp in immunocompetent patients when used in conjunction with lesion preparation (debridement using a sharp dermal curette).

Secobarbital sodium, a barbiturate, is FDA approved for the treatment of insomnia and for pre-anesthetic use. This drug binds at a distinct site associated with a Cl- ionopore at the GABAA receptor, increasing the duration of time for which the Cl- ionopore is open. The post-synaptic inhibitory effect of GABA in the thalamus is, therefore, prolonged. Adverse reactions are drowsiness, lethargy, hangover, paradoxical excitement in elderly patients, somnolence. Rifampin may decrease secobarbital levels by increasing metabolism.

Gallic acid is a polyphenol found in a variety of foods and herbs. Several studies have shown thta gallic acid has neuroprotective and anti-oxidant properties and can be a promising candidate for the treatment of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, fatty liver disease and many others. Gallic acid acts by protecting cells against oxidative damage caused by reactive species often encountered in biological systems including, hydroxyl, superoxide and peroxyl and the non-radicals, hydrogen peroxide and hypochlorous acid. However, its ability to induce apoptosis, is mainly associated with its prooxidant, rather than antioxidant behavior.

Silver iodide is an inorganic compound with the formula AgI. It is used as a photosensitive agent in photography, as a local antiseptic, as a chemical intermediate, and in cloud seeding for rain-making. The major hazards encountered in the use and handling of silver iodide stem from its toxicologic properties. Effects from exposure may include skin rashes, conjunctivitis, argyria (a permanent ashen-gray discoloration of skin, conjunctiva, and internal organs), headache, fever, hypersensitivity, laryngitis, and bronchitis.

Lobeline is an alkaloid found in "Indian tobacco" (Lobelia inflata), "Devil's tobacco" (Lobelia tupa), "cardinal flower" (Lobelia cardinalis), "great lobelia" (Lobelia siphilitica), and Hippobroma longiflora. Additionally, it is also found in Lobelia Chinensis. In its pure form, it is a white amorphous powder which is freely soluble in water. Lobeline has been sold, in tablet form, for use as a smoking cessation aid, and may have application in the treatment of other drug addictions such as addiction to amphetamines, cocaine, or alcohol. Lobeline has multiple mechanisms of action, acting as a VMAT2 ligand, which stimulates dopamine release to a moderate extent when administered alone, but reduces the dopamine release caused by methamphetamine. It also inhibits the reuptake of dopamine and serotonin and acts as a mixed agonist-antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors to which it binds at the subunit interfaces of the extracellular domain. It is also an antagonist at μ-opioid receptors. It seems to be a P-glycoprotein inhibitor, according to at least one study. It has been hypothesized that P-glycoprotein inhibition reduces chemotherapeutic resistance in cancer, presumably affecting any substrates of P-gp.

CTI-01 (ethyl pyruvate) is an investigational anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of critical inflammatory conditions. CTI-01 was developed by Critical Therapeutics as a stable prodrug of pyruvate, a potent antioxidant, and a free radical scavenger. The drug showed an anti-inflammatory and tissue protection activity in animal models of pancreatitis, ischemia-reperfusion injury, sepsis, renal injury, and endotoxemia. CTI-01 was investigated in phase 2 clinical trials on patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, but despite positive results in animal models, administration of EP does not appear to confer any benefit to cardiac surgical patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Besides clinical applications, ethyl pyruvate is long used as an additive to pharmaceutical preparations and foods, including candy, beverages, and baked goods. It is generally recognized as safe by the FDA.

Menthol, (+)- is a fragrance ingredient used in decorative cosmetics, fine fragrances, shampoos, toilet soaps and other toiletries as well as in non-cosmetic products such as household cleaners and detergents. Recent investigations have provided evidence for menthol to increase cough thresholds. Racementhol is used as a topical analgesic.