Can Medications Cause Sunburns? Everything You Need to Know About Drug-Induced Photosensitivity

It's summertime! You're excited to soak up as much sunshine as possible. But did you know that one of the medications you're taking might make it easier for you to get sunburned?

What is drug-induced photosensitivity?

Drug-induced photosensitivity is a skin reaction that can happen when you are taking certain medications and your skin is exposed to high enough UV radiation (sunlight). Although some medicated creams or ointments can cause a photosensitivity reaction, many oral medications can cause this as well.

Drug-induced photosensitivity reactions usually appear as sunburns and may feel itchy. They appear on the areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun the most. These areas typically include the face, neck, and forearms. The reactions can vary in intensity from a mild sunburn to blistering skin.

What medications can cause drug-induced photosensitivity?

There are several medications that can cause drug-induced photosensitivity. The following are medications that may cause this reaction:

• Antibiotics

  • Tetracyclines, including tetracycline and doxycycline

  • Fluoroquinolones, including ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin

  • Third generation cephalosporins, including cefotaxime and ceftazidime

• Antifungals

  • Voriconazole

  • Ketoconazole

  • Itraconazole

• NSAIDs

  • Naproxen

  • Ibuprofen

  • Celecoxib

• Diuretics

  • Hydrochlorothiazide

  • Furosemide

  • Triamterene

• Other medications

  • Chlorpromazine

  • Amitriptyline

  • Fluorouracil

  • Isotretinoin

  • Benzoyl peroxide

How can you prevent drug-induced photosensitivity?

Step 1: Avoid going outside when UV rays are strongest.

The sun's UV rays are strongest between the hours of 10am and 4pm. When possible, try to avoid going outside during these hours of the day.

Step 2: Wear appropriate clothing.

Wear wide-brimmed hats that shade your face and light-colored, breathable clothing with long sleeves and long pants if it’s not too hot outside to do so.

Step 3: Apply sunscreen.

Apply broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours.

What should you do if you have a photosensitive reaction to a medication?

Step 1: Contact your doctor.

If you develop a serious sunburn or blistering skin, contact your provider. They may want you to temporarily stop taking the medication that could have caused your photosensitive reaction.

Step 2: Treatment

Treat the skin reaction just like you would treat a sunburn by applying a cool compress or aloe to the affected area. In addition, topical or oral corticosteroids may be beneficial depending on how severe the skin reaction is. If your doctor decides that you need oral corticosteroids, they will need to write a prescription for you.

Whether or not you are taking a medication that may increase your risk of getting a sunburn, make sure to still take steps to protect your skin from the sun! And if you are taking a medication that can cause drug-induced photosensitivity, make sure you're even more cautious.

References:

Blakely, K., Drucker, A., & Rosen, C. (2019). Drug-induced photosensitivity - an update: culprit drugs, prevention and management. Drug Safety, 42(7), 827-847. doi: 10.1007/s40264-019-00806-5

Monteiro, A., Rato, M., Martins, C. (2016). Drug-induced photosensitivity: photoallergic and phototoxic reactions. Clinical Dermatology, 34(5), 571-81.doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2016.05.006

Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board