Photosensitive drug reaction

Photosensitive drug reaction is a skin condition that occurs when a person's skin reacts abnormally to sunlight after taking certain medications. This reaction can manifest in two forms: phototoxic and photoallergic reactions.

Phototoxic reactions

A phototoxic reaction occurs when a drug absorbs UV light and releases it into the skin. This can cause damage to the skin that is similar to severe sunburn. Symptoms of a phototoxic reaction can occur within hours of sun exposure and typically include redness, burning, and swelling. The most common drugs that can cause a phototoxic reaction include certain antibiotics, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs.

Photoallergic reactions

A photoallergic reaction is a less common form of photosensitive drug reaction. It occurs when a drug changes in the presence of sunlight and the body's immune system reacts to this change. Symptoms of a photoallergic reaction can include redness, itching, and swelling, and they can spread to areas of the skin that were not exposed to the sun. The most common drugs that can cause a photoallergic reaction include certain antibiotics, pain relievers, and skin medications.

Prevention and treatment

Prevention of photosensitive drug reactions primarily involves avoiding sun exposure when taking medications known to cause these reactions. If sun exposure cannot be avoided, wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen can help protect the skin. Treatment of photosensitive drug reactions typically involves discontinuing the medication causing the reaction and treating the symptoms. This can include using topical creams to soothe the skin and taking oral antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling.

See also

• Drug eruption
• Photodermatitis
• Sunburn

Photosensitive drug reaction Resources
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