Drug-Induced Photosensitivity: A Clinical Review

Abstract

Objective:

To provide an overview of drug-induced phototoxic and photoallergy reactions, the mechanism involved, and the most common classes of drugs causing these reactions.

Data Source:

Pertinent English-language literature (1987–1993).

Study Selection:

Representative articles documenting mechanisms and types of drug-induced photosensitivity reactions, as well as treatment options.

Data Extraction:

Data were extracted only from articles that documented relevant and substantive information backed by clinical studies.

Data Synthesis:

Drug-induced photosensitivity can be acute or chronic. The chromophore that absorbs the radiation and activates the process of photosensitivity results in color within the longer ultraviolet wavelength. The primary classes of drugs causing phototoxic reactions include nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, thiazide diuretics, tetracycline, and quinolone antibiotics, tricyclic antidepressants, and amiodarone. Those causing photoallergic reactions include antihistamines, thiazide diuretics, sulfonamides, griseofulvin, sulfonylurea hypoglycemic agents, benzocaine, and coal tar preparations.

Conclusions:

The importance of understanding the mechanism of photosensitivity is stressed as well as the difficulty in determining whether a phototoxic or photoallergic reaction has occurred. Established classes of each type of photosensitivity are identified and the importance of recognizing treatment options is emphasized. Patients prone to photosensitizing reactions should be advised concerning how to manage these problems.