“SUN ALLERGY”---DRUG-INDUCED PHOTOSENSITIVITY IS PRIMARILY DUE TO UVA RAYS.

Advise patients taking photosensitizing drugs to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

A list of the usual culprits (isotretinoin, thiazides, etc)...include also ones that are often forgotten such as benzodiazepines and NSAIDs. This table summarizes drugs which have been associated with photosensitivity. It is important to note that many of the drugs listed were included based on case reports. However, patients taking these drugs should be counseled to minimize sun exposure and to use broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreens when sun exposure cannot be avoided.

Drug-induced photosensitivity may present in a variety of ways. Most reactions are either phototoxic or photoallergic. Photoallergy is a rare, immunological response, which is not dose-related and occurs after continuous exposure. Photoallergy occurs when light causes a drug to act as a hapten, triggering a hypersensitivity response which often manifests as pruritic and eczematous rash.Phototoxic reactions are chemically-induced reactions which occur when the drug absorbs UVA light and causes cellular damage. This reaction can be seen with initial exposure to a drug, may be dose-related, and doesn't demonstrate cross-sensitivity. It usually has rapid onset and manifests as an exaggerated sunburn. This reaction will be seen only on skin areas exposed to the sun.

Please remember, as with all our articles we provide information, not medical advice.
For any treatment of your own medical condition you must visit your local doctor, with or without our article[s]. These articles are not to be taken as individual medical advice.

* Tune in tomorrow for information on Heatstroke

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