It is that time of year again! The sun is shining and lazy days are spent enjoying the pool, the beach, the lake, and outdoor sports! Who doesn’t enjoy a little sunshine? But a medication reaction to the sun can certainly put a damper on a pleasant weekend. It is best to be informed about your medications and if there is a risk of sun sensitivity.
There are two main types of drug reactions to the sun. Photoallergy and Photoxicity. Photoallergy occurs when the sun changes the structure of the drug so that the drug is seen by the body as an invader, which causes the body to start an allergic response. Photo allergic reactions are generally caused by topical drugs, but not always. Usually it is in the form of a rash, similar to eczema. Photo allergic reactions can even occur on parts of the body that were not exposed to the sun, and usually happen a couple of days after the exposure to the sun. Some examples of drugs that might cause a photo allergic reaction are sunscreens, anti-microbials, and certain pain killers. Not everyone that takes these medications will have a photo allergic reaction, but once it is diagnosed, stopping the medication or topical cream, and the use of antihistamines can help stop the reaction.
Photo toxic reactions occur when a drug becomes activated by exposure to the sun, which in turn causes damage to the skin. Photo toxic reactions generally come in the form of a rash, occurs quickly and usually clears up once the person stops taking the medication that has caused the reaction. There are many drugs that can cause a phototoxic reaction in people that have a sun sensitivity. Antiboitics such as ciproflaxin and levofloxacin commonly cause photo toxic reactions. Malaria medications, Cancer chemotherapy drugs, cardiac drug, diuretics, diabetic drugs, acne medications, and anti-depressants all have the potential for photo toxic reactions.
Sun Sensitivity does not affect everyone who takes these medications; you might be perfectly fine on your normal medications in the sun, and able to enjoy the outdoors with no change in your routine. If you do notice a rash once you have been in the sun, and have just begun taking a new medication, check in with your doctor to see if you might have sun sensitivity. Sunscreen can also help, as long as you aren’t allergic to the PABA that is an ingredient in some sunscreens. Be aware of your current medications and the risks, and enjoy your summer!