Medications and Drugs

Causes of Fatigue Slideshow Is Sleepiness Hurting You?

GENERIC NAME: SUNSCREENS

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Sunscreens are used to protect the skin from the sun preventing sunburn, premature aging, skin reactions and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

HOW TO USE: Sunscreens are for topical use only. Apply liberally to all exposed skin 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after swimming or excessive sweating. Wear protective eye covering. Use carefully when applying to the face. Avoid contact with the eyes. Use cautiously or avoid use on irritated skin. Do not use on infants under 6 months old. Children under 3 years should use a sunscreen with SPF of 30.

SIDE EFFECTS: If a sunscreen causes redness or a rash, discontinue use. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using a different type of sunscreen product. Some sunscreen products may stain clothing. Apply with caution. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor before using this medication: PABA allergy, benzocaine allergy, sulfa drug allergy.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: skin products, sulfa-drugs, tetracycline, all antibiotics. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES: There are various types of sunscreens available in cream, lotion, gel, stick and spray form. The sun produces two types of ultraviolet radiation (UV); UVA and UVB. UVA radiation causes skin damage and skin reactions to medications, soaps, cosmetics and other chemicals. UVB radiation is responsible for sunburns and skin cancer. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a rating that indicates the degree of protection from the sun a product provides. The higher the number, the greater the protection. An SPF of at least 15 is recommended. SPF 30 is the upper limit, meaning that numbers greater than 30 provide no greater benefit. Waterproof products provide protection after being in the water for up to 80 minutes. Water-resistant products protect for up to 40 minutes and sweat-resistant products protect for up to 30 minutes of heavy sweating. Remember too that water, sand and snow reflect the sun.

MISSED DOSE: Apply sunscreens liberally and often when outdoors.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. It is recommended to replace sunscreen products every year as they lose potency over time.