09/10/2026

Did You Know? Drug-Induced Photosensitivity

Certain medications can cause sensitivity to the sun, known as photosensitivity, through two primary biological processes called phototoxicity (a chemically-induced reaction that may depend on the dose) and photoallergy (an immune-mediated reaction that is not related to dose).

This month's DYK article from LeadingAge Ohio Partner, HealthDirect Pharmacy Services, reviews commonly prescribed medications associated with drug-induced photosensitivity and best practices to minimize exposure risk for your residents and how to care for them after a reaction has occurred. The most effective way to address this issue is adequate sunlight protection. Patients who are prescribed the medications listed should be advised to limit their exposure to sunlight by wearing protective clothing and using broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays when sun exposure is unavoidable.