Medications and Sensitivity to Heat or Sun

* CMHS update - Information on Extreme Heat from CDC

Nearly all psychiatric medications increase the body's sensitivity to the heat or sun. Photosensitivity is the result of drugs combining with proteins in the skin to form substances which react with direct light. Being in the sun for as little as 30 to 60 minutes can cause a variety of allergic skin rashes. Other signs of sensitivity are severe sunburn, nausea and vomiting, flushed or pale skin, and confusion and fainting.

If photosensitivity does occur, speak to your doctor. Sun should be avoided for as much as 4-6 weeks. There are many commercial sunscreens available to help protect anyone who either works or plays in the sun. They come in lotions, creams and sprays and should be applied to all exposed areas of the body such as hands, face, neck, feet, legs, and top of head if bald. Sun block or other sunscreens containing para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) should be used. These products screen out the ultraviolet rays. Protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, are also a big help in protection.

Anti-psychotics (Neuroleptics), Anti-depressants, and Anti-parkinsonians inhibit the body's ability to sweat. Take cool showers or baths, or splash cool water on your face and arms if they are becoming overheated. Anti psychotics (Neuroleptics) also make the skin more susceptible to sunburn. Use sunscreen. Lithium causes excessive loss of fluids, such as through excessive sweating, and can cause the lithium level in your blood to become too high. Drink plenty of liquids and use salt unless instructed not to do so.

The following is a partial list of psychiatric medications known to cause heat or sun sensitivity. Your pharmacist is an excellent source of information concerning the specific medicines you take and reaction to heat and sun.

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