Medicijnen en de zon

Medicine and the sun

Opinion
Self-care
Sunburn
Gepubliceerd op 7 August 2024

When taking certain medications, sun exposure can pose additional risks. Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which can lead to sunburns, rashes or other skin reactions. It is important to know when you need extra protection and when you may need to stop taking a medication.

Medicijnen en de zon

Medications that can cause sun sensitivity

  1. Antibiotics
    Examples: Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline), fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin), sulfonamides.
    Action: Use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and avoid direct sun exposure.

    After stopping the medication, it usually takes some time for the risk of sunburn to decrease. With doxycycline, for example, this is up to six weeks after stopping the course of treatment. Want to know more about a specific medication? Ask us! We're happy to help.

  2. Antidepressants
    Examples: Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline), SSRIs (e.g., sertraline).
    Action: Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and use sunscreen.

  3. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
    Examples: Ibuprofen, naproxen.
    Action: Protect skin with clothing and sunscreen when exposed to the sun.

  4. Diuretics
    Examples: Hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide.
    Action: Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen to avoid skin reactions.

  5. Special consideration: retinoids
    Examples: Isotretinoin, tretinoin.
    Action: Avoid sun exposure as much as possible and always use a high SPF sunscreen.

  6. Anti-acne medications
    Examples: Benzoyl peroxide
    Action: avoid direct sun exposure and use a high SPF sunscreen.

When extra protection is necessary?

  • Sun exposure: When you are outside, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is strongest.
  • Summer vacations: During beach or outdoor activities while on vacation.
  • Mountain areas: Sun exposure at high altitudes increases the risk of sunburn.
  • Water activities: Water reflects UV rays, which increases the risk of sunburn.

When to stop taking medication

  • Serious skin reactions: If you notice severe skin reactions such as blistering, severe rash or swelling, contact your doctor immediately. Do not stop the medication abruptly without medical supervision.
  • Other side effects: Report other side effects to your doctor, who can decide whether it is necessary to adjust or stop the medication.

Preventive measures

  • Sunscreen: Dutch dermatologists generally recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. This provides about 97% protection against UVB radiation. A higher SPF, such as 50, offers slightly more protection, about 98%, but the difference in practice is small. Therefore, SPF 30 is often considered sufficient for most people (Huidarts.com) (Drs Leenarts).
  • It is important to reapply sunscreen regularly, about every two hours, and especially after swimming or sweating. It is also crucial to apply sunscreen generously and evenly to achieve the indicated protection factor (Skin Doctor.com)
  • In addition, sunscreen with mineral filters (such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) is often recommended for people with sensitive skin or for children because they are less irritating (Skin Doctor.com). Do watch for stains in clothing!
  • Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Shade: Seek shade when the sun is at its strongest.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you are taking diuretics.

Hydration.