4 common medications that can increase skin cancer risk

You don’t want to go from brrrr to burn.

Much of the US is getting its first taste of spring after an unusually brutal winter. But before you head outside to soak in the sunshine, you may want to check your medicine cabinet or purse.

A dermatology specialist warns that certain medications can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and raise the risk of skin cancer.

“Most people have no idea that their medication could be making them more sensitive to the sun,” Dr. Emily Alfonsi, medical director of Shade Skin in Australia, told The Post.

“They might notice they’re burning faster or developing unusual rashes, but they don’t immediately connect it to their medication,” Alfonsi added.

Alfonsi said she’s seen patients develop second-degree sunburns with blistering, unexplained rashes or dark patches of skin, even in indirect sunlight.

Photosensitivity is the culprit — it’s an exaggerated reaction to UV light. The body absorbs UV radiation, chemically changing medicine in the skin and potentially leading to rashes, blisters, swelling, peeling, burning, itching or long-lasting hyperpigmentation.

“For people on photosensitizing medications, a few minutes in the sun without protection can have serious consequences,” Alfonsi said.

She sheds light on four types of medications that can cause photosensitivity and shares four tips to protect yourself if you’re on these drugs. While sunscreen is effective, Alfonsi said, “it’s not a free pass to stay in the sun all day.”

Antibiotics

Alfonsi said tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, used for bacterial infections, can cause severe sunburns even after brief UV exposure.

Doxycycline and minocycline are tetracyclines, while fluoroquinolones include ciprofloxacin (brand name: Cipro) and levofloxacin (Levaquin).

Diuretics

Diuretics — also known as “water pills,” which help the body eliminate excess salt and water — treat high blood pressure and fluid retention.

Studies have suggested a link between diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide and an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common skin cancer in the US.

Immunosuppressants

Medications like azathioprine, commonly used in transplant patients to prevent organ rejection and to reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, can weaken the skin’s natural defenses against UV damage.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen (brand name: Aleve) reduce pain, inflammation and fever.

Researchers say long-term use can cause sun sensitivity.

How to protect your skin, especially if you’re on a photosensitizing medication

“Prevention is key,” Alfonsi said. “If you’re taking a medication that increases sun sensitivity, a few extra precautions can significantly reduce your risk of long-term skin damage and skin cancer.”

• Apply sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher every day — even in the winter.
• Shield yourself from the sun with UV-blocking sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats and other protective gear.
• Avoid peak sun hours, often 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Schedule annual dermatologist visits, and monitor your skin for unusual changes.