Summer is fading fast, and maybe that is why sunshine seems to be at the top of my mind. Whatever the reason, while today’s post offers another caution about the sun, it is relevant year-round.

What’s the problem?

You may think that if you follow recommendations for using sunscreen that you and your family will be safe from the sun. However, parents should be aware that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified many different medications that can cause what is called “photosensitivity.”

These medications may make people more susceptible to short-term or long-term “photosensitivity disorders,” including:

acute symptoms

• severe sunburn
• eye burn
• hives
• eczema-like rashes with itching, swelling, blistering, oozing, and scaling of the skin

chronic symptoms

• premature skin aging
• stronger allergic reactions
• cataracts
• blood vessel damage
• weakened immune system
• skin cancer

Such reactions can happen unexpectedly, even after only a brief time or when it is cloudy outside. Reactions are most common with sunlight, but they also occur from other sources of UV radiation, including tanning booths and purple-lighted bug zappers.

Not everyone who takes these medications will have a photosensitive reaction. And reactions may vary over time; for example, people who have a reaction after one use may not have a reaction after subsequent uses. That’s why it is especially important for parents to be aware of their children’s exposure to these agents.

What medications are high-risk?

It’s odd to think that the acne medication your teen wants to use to help her skin may end up causing it to be damaged by the sun—but there it is. Topical and oral medications, as well as acne facial washes can cause the user to be photosensitive. Read labels and watch out for:

• Tetracycline and Doxycycline
• Accutane or IsotretinoinRetinoids
• Salicyclic acid

Other medications that may cause reactions include:

• St. John’s wart
• Antihistamines
• Antibiotics
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like Motrin and Aleve
• Anti-depressants and antipsychotics
• Oral diabetes medications
• Tranquilizers
• Certain creams, lotions and other skin treatments

This list isn’t exhaustive. Your safest bet is to ask your physician and/or pharmacist about any medications that are prescribed for you or your child.

How can I protect my family?

Dr. Patrick Pasqualriello, Jr. of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the FDA offer some helpful tips for preventing problems.

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist if photosensitivity is a known side effect of any medication before you give it to your child.
• Read the information packet you receive with your prescription—and read the labels of face washes before using them.
• Follow safe sun practices: Avoid sun during peak hours, limit sun exposure, use ample sunscreen, reapply sunscreen often, and consult the Environmental Working Group’s sunscreen database when you choose what product you’ll use for your family. (The FDA does note that titanium dioxide may be the most helpful.)
• Cover up! Choose clothes that cover a lot of skin, including a wide-brimmed hat.
• Be aware that sunscreen may not help, so keep an eye out for the symptoms listed above.

Most importantly, if you notice a reaction to the sun, contact your health care provider immediately. There may be treatment—or other prescription options—available.