Could Your Medication Increase Sun Sensitivity?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a leading cause of preventable skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. This risk can be further increased by certain medications that cause sun sensitivity (photosensitivity), which can result in a higher risk of sunburn, skin rash, or changes in skin pigmentation.

If you take medications in the categories below, you may be at increased risk:

1. Antibiotics
   Examples: doxycycline, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin
   

2. Blood pressure medications (including diuretics)
   Examples: hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), furosemide, captopril
   

3. Mental health medications (certain agents)
   Examples: chlorpromazine, amitriptyline, doxepin
   

4. Diabetes medications (sulfonylureas)
   Examples: glyburide, glipizide
   

5. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
   Examples: ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, piroxicam
   

6. Acne treatments
   Examples: isotretinoin, tretinoin, adapalene

Sun sensitivity risk varies by medication and individual response. If you are unsure whether your medication increases sun sensitivity, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

If you are at increased risk, consider using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a higher SPF, limiting sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and wearing protective clothing to help support long-term skin health.

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(The information provided is for educational purposes and should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any conditions. Consult with your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.)