Conditions and symptoms
What Is Photosensitivity? Medicines and Sun Warnings
Photosensitivity · say it: FOH-toh-SEN-sih-TIV-ih-teeAlso written: sun sensitivity, photosensitivity reaction, phototoxicity, photoallergy
Short answer
Photosensitivity means the skin reacts more strongly to sunlight, often burning or getting a rash much more easily than usual.
What it means
Photosensitivity means increased sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or sunbeds. Affected skin may burn quickly, turn red, blister, itch or develop a rash, usually on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck and backs of the hands.
Many medicines carry this warning, including some antibiotics (tetracyclines such as doxycycline, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides), some diuretics, amiodarone, some NSAIDs and some acne medicines. Labels advise avoiding strong sun and sunbeds, covering up, and using sunscreen while taking the medicine, and to contact your doctor if a severe reaction happens.
A phototoxic reaction looks like an exaggerated sunburn; a photoallergic reaction is more like an itchy allergic rash. Both fall under photosensitivity.
Where you may see it
- Pharmacy warning stickers: 'Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight'
- Leaflets for doxycycline, some diuretics and acne medicines
- Dermatology clinic letters
📄 How it looks on a report
Photosensitivity manifested by an exaggerated sunburn reaction has been observed. Avoid excessive sunlight or artificial UV light.
🙅 What it does not mean
- It does not mean you must stay indoors; sensible sun protection is usually enough.
- It does not always stop the day you finish the medicine; it can last a little longer.
- A cloudy day does not mean no UV exposure.
🎯 Check yourself
Which of these is the right meaning of “Photosensitivity”?
🗒️ Questions to ask your doctor
💊 Medicines whose labels mention “Photosensitivity”
Plain-English explanations of each medicine, from its official FDA label.
- Doxycycline
a tetracycline-class antibacterial medicine (an antibiotic)
- Furosemide
A loop diuretic, a type of medicine that helps the body get rid of extra fluid through urine
- Hydrochlorothiazide
A thiazide diuretic, a type of medicine often called a 'water pill'
🔗 Read more from trusted sources
- “Photosensitivity” on MedlinePlus ↗
US National Library of Medicine
- NCI Dictionary definition ↗
US National Cancer Institute: “photosensitivity”
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General information about a medical word, not advice about your own results. Ask the clinician who ordered the test what it means for you.