Yujian Science Popularization丨How to use "shady" drugs

Dahe.com News: In the hot summer, the sunlight is getting stronger and stronger, and the incidence of drug-induced photosensitivity reactions is also gradually increasing. Drug photosensitivity refers to the adverse reactions of patients exposed to sunlight (mainly ultraviolet rays) after taking or applying certain drugs topically. The main manifestations of drug-induced photosensitivity reactions are: erythema and edema appear on the skin exposed to light, accompanied by itching, burning pain or pigmentation. In severe cases, blisters may occur, and ulcers or erosions may form after the blisters rupture.

Common drugs that are prone to cause photosensitivity reactions include: certain antibiotics for treating bacterial infections, such as levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, minocycline, etc.; commonly used diuretics and antihypertensive drugs, such as hydrochlorothiazide and its combination preparations (losartan hydrochlorothiazide, irbesartan hydrochlorothiazide, etc.); and retinoids for treating skin diseases, such as isotretinoin, acitretin, etc.; as well as some hypoglycemic drugs, anti-tumor drugs, antifungal drugs and certain traditional Chinese medicines.

Drug photosensitivity is an adverse reaction that is easily overlooked, especially when doing field work in the summer. You should be more alert to the phototoxicity of drugs when going out for fun. You need to read the drug instructions carefully before taking the drug. You need to pay special attention to the drugs that mention photosensitivity/phototoxicity in the instructions. When using these drugs and within 5 days after stopping the drug, you should avoid excessive exposure to sunlight and protect your skin. If a photosensitivity reaction occurs, stop the drug immediately and seek medical attention in time.

Henan Provincial Health Commission reminds: Summer sunlight is strong, so be alert to drug "photosensitivity reaction" when taking medication. Read the instructions carefully before taking medication. For drugs that mention photosensitivity/phototoxicity in the instructions, avoid excessive exposure to sunlight during use and within 5 days after stopping the medication, and take good skin protection. If a photosensitivity reaction occurs, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention in time.

(Guided by the Publicity Department of Henan Provincial Health Commission, and contributed by Ma Ming from the Pharmacy Department of Henan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine)