Medications and Sun Sensitivity

Medically reviewed by Kristie Reed, PharmD

Photosensitivity, or sun sensitivity, is a condition in which a person's immune system reacts to sun exposure—typically ultraviolet A (UVA) light. Antibiotics, NSAIDs, and topical medications are just a few of the medications that cause photosensitivity.

A person may discover they have this condition if they experience sun sensitivity symptoms such as itchy skin and hives. Read on to learn more about medications that can lead to photosensitivity.

Photoallergy vs. Phototoxicity

Some medications contain ingredients that cause photosensitivity, or a chemically-induced change in the skin that can make you more sensitive to sunlight. Photosensitivity also breaks down into two separate types:

• Photoallergy: An allergic reaction of the skin that can occur up to several days after exposure

• Phototoxicity: An irritation of the skin that can occur within a few hours and the most common type of photosensitivity
  

Complications

Photosensitivity effects can range from skin redness and itchiness to blisters and hives. In addition, there can be complications from having too much sun exposure like:

• Aggravation of existing skin conditions

• Appearance of photosensitivity disorders like lupus

• Loss of skin elasticity

• Premature aging

• Skin cancer

• Sunburn

Medications That Can Cause Sun Sensitivity

To help, here are some of the better-known medications that may allow sun and heat to hit you harder—and what you can do about it.

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are one cause of photosensitive and phototoxic reactions. One example is Bactrim, prescribed to treat bacterial infections like bronchitis and bladder infections. Other antibiotics may make you react poorly to the sun, including:

• Ciprofloxacin

• Doxycycline

• Levofloxacin

• Ofloxacin

• Tetracycline

• Trimethoprim

Never stop an antibiotic without consulting a healthcare provider first. They can help you balance your plans with your medications if photosensitivity occurs.

2. Acne Treatments

Certain acne treatments, like retinoids, may make you photosensitive. Prescription retinoids—such as Retin-A and Tazorac—could be more of an issue with causing sun sensitivity, though the reaction is rare. They are significantly stronger than the products at drugstores and beauty counters.

Over-the-counter (OTC) acne and anti-aging products with retinol can also cause dryness, peeling, and sun sensitivity. The same review stated that products with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can also increase your vulnerability.

3. Allergy Medications

When your body gets too hot, sweat cools you down—for comfort and for staying healthy. Some users find that oral antihistamines like diphenhydramine—found in products like Benadryl and Dramamine—reduce their ability to sweat. In extreme cases, overheating as a result of reduced sweating can lead to cramps, exhaustion, and even heat stroke.

4. Antidepressants

Signs of photosensitivity have been associated with the use of different antidepressant types, from tricyclic antidepressants to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The medications have resulted in symptoms such as:

• Eczema-like lesions

• Red, itchy spots with blisters

• Skin discoloration

• Swelling accompanied by redness
  

5. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs include commonly used OTC medications like ibuprofen and naproxen, as well as prescription treatments like Celebrex. They are used to treat pain, swelling, and fevers. Other than ibuprofen and naproxen, aspirin is another well-known NSAID option with the potential to lead to phototoxicity.

6. Contraceptives

You may develop sun sensitivity if you take hormonal birth control—also called contraceptives. One way the sensitivity can manifest is as reddish lesions and blisters.

7. Transdermal Medications

Significant sun exposure can amplify the effect of transdermal patches that deliver medication directly through the skin. An example of these types of medicinal patches is Fentanyl, a powerful pain reliever.

Prevention and Recommendations

To minimize the effects and potential complications from photosensitivity, consider using the following tips:

• Seek shady areas or stay inside when the sun's rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher when you know you'll be exposed to the sun.

• Wear sun-protective attire, like pants, long-sleeved shirts, or wide-brimmed hats.

Talk to a healthcare provider before stopping any prescribed medications that induce sun sensitivity. The provider can help you determine if there are other medications you can use or how to stop the medications safely, if necessary.

While some medications can result in photosensitivity, not everyone will become sun-sensitive when taking them. It's also important to know that sun sensitivity doesn't always occur when taking a medication if you have to take it multiple times.

A Quick Review

When a person is photosensitive, sun exposure can make their immune system react and cause symptoms such as hives or blisters. Medications such as transdermal patches, acne treatments, and birth control can all potentially lead to photosensitivity.

Consult a healthcare provider if you think a treatment you're using may be causing sun sensitivity. While taking those medications, actions like wearing long sleeves or limiting your time in the sun can be helpful for reducing sun sensitivity effects.

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