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November 24, 2009
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Sun-Sensitive Drugs (Photosensitivity to Drugs) (cont.)

Is anyone taking these drugs at risk for developing sunburn?

It is important to realize that not everyone taking any of these drugs will develop photosensitivity reactions. Certain individuals have more susceptibility to these medications than others.

Can any foods or plants cause sun sensitivity (photosensitivity) reactions?

Some vegetables and plants may cause sun sensitivity if they come into contact with the skin. Mango peel, lime juice, parsnips, or celery, for example, may cause temporary discoloration (darkening) of the skin contact area when in the sun. Common phototoxic fruits and vegetables include:

  • Lime
  • Celery
  • Carrots
  • Figs
  • Parsley
  • Parsnips

Are there any medical applications of sun sensitivity (photosensitivity)?

Photodynamic therapy utilizes the concept of sun or light sensitivity to treat some skin conditions including skin pre-cancers (actinic keratosis), skin cancers, and acne. Briefly, this treatment takes advantage of activating a photosensitizing drug (such as 5-aminolevulinic acid) by shining light directly onto it for a short time. The drug is first applied to the area of the skin where the cancer or pre-cancer is found. With light-induced activation of the drug, the abnormal cells (cancer or pre-cancer) are destroyed preferentially.

Sun-sensitizing Drugs (Photosensitivity) At A Glance

  • Many common medications may cause a reaction in some individuals that is similar to sunburn.

  • Symptoms of sun sensitivity are similar to those of sunburn.

  • The phototoxic reactions may happen within hours of exposure to sun.

  • The photoallergic reactions may happen after several days of exposure to sun.

  • A thorough list of sun-sensitizing drugs is provided (see Appendix).

References:

1. Textbook of cutaneous medicine and surgery. Arndt, MD, et al, 1996

2. New England Journal of Medicine 2004;350:1111-1117. Photosensitivity by Morrison, MD.



Next: Appendix - Sun Sensitive (Photosensitivity) Drugs from A to Z »

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