Medications & Sun Sensitivity
This is a sample list of some medications that may make a person more sensitive to the sun. We suggest that if taking medication, that you ask your doctor how best to protect yourself when in the sun.
• Antibiotics - Doxycycline, Tetracycline, Ciprofloxacin, Ofloxacin, Levofloxacin, trimethoprim
• Anticonvulsants - Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Felbamate (Felbatol), Gabapentin (Neurontin)
• Elavil, Imipramine, Desipramine, Ludiomil, Trazadone, Parnate, Sinequan
• St. John's Wort
• Antihistimines - Promethazine, Diphenhydramine
• Antihypertensives - Aldactazide, Capozide, Cardizem, Diltiazem
• Antiparkinsonians - Cogentin, Artane, Symmetrel
• Thorazine, Compazine, Stellazine, Mellaril, Navane, Trilafon, Haldol, Loxitane,Prolixi, Risperdal
• Cholesterol Drugs - Simvastatin, Atorvastatin (Lipitor), Lovastatin
• Diuretics - Furosemide (Lasix), Bumetanide (Bumex), Hydrolorothiazide (Microzide, Esidrix)
• Fragrances - Musk Ambrette, 6-methylcoumarin, Sandalwood
• Hormones - Corticosteroids (Prednisone), Oral contraceptives
• Hypoglycemics - Glucotrol, glyburide
• Ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin), Naproxen (Aleve), Celecoxib (Celebrex), Ketoprofen (Orudis)
• Neuroleptic Drugs - Chlorpromazine, Fluphenazine, Perphenazine, Thioridazine, Thiothixene
Precautions to Help Minimize Exposure to the Sun
This is a sample list of some possible precautions to help minimize exposure to the sun. We suggest that If taking medication, that you ask your doctor how to best protect yourself when in the sun.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines photosensitivity as “abnormally sensitive or reactive to light.” When a person can’t avoid sun exposure, there a some precautionary steps that can be taken to reduceexposure, including:
• Avoid or limit the amount of sun exposure during the hours between 10 am and 4 pm.
• Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, at least 30 minutes prior to sun exposure.
• Wear light colored protective clothing such as a wide brim hat, long sleeve shirts and pants.
• Use sunglasses with impact resistant lenses that offer 100% UV protection.
• Check with your doctor or pharmacist about your medications’ drug photosensitivity potential.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, since sunscreen gradually wears off. You will also want to reapply sunscreen after swimming or strenuous activity resulting in heavy perspiring.
This information is provided courtesy of Linda Ziac and The Caregiver Resource Center. The Caregiver Resource Center has been providing a spectrum of case management and advocacy services for seniors, people with special needs and their families, since 1990. Call 203-281-9833.
