Certain medications can increase the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
There are two ways in which medications can affect sun sensitivity:
- phototoxic reactions, where the drug molecule absorbs UV light and releases it back into the skin, and
- photoallergic reactions, where structural changes in the drug cause an immune system response after sun exposure.
Both types of reactions can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Medications that can cause sun sensitivity include:
- antibiotics like tetracycline and fluoroquinolones,
- antifungals,
- oral retinoids,
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
- certain pain patches,
- drugs for irregular heartbeats and immune conditions, and
- chemotherapy drugs.
For those who cannot discontinue or to change into medications that does not cause sun-sensitivity, it is important to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade.
Dr. Kim would also like to advise you not to overly avoid sun exposure, as this could increase your chance of vitamin D deficiency.
