Why do I have to stay out of the sun if I take sulfa antibiotics?
Certain medications, including sulfa antibiotics, can cause photosensitivity - being especially
sensitive to the sun's burning rays (more so than you normally are). Even brief exposure to the
sun or using a tanning booth or sunlamp can cause a person to experience a skin rash, itching,
redness, discolored skin - even a severe sunburn.
While you are taking a sulfa medication, be sure to avoid direct sunlight, especially between
10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest. Wear clothing and accessories to protect
your skin: long-sleeved shirts and pants, and sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
Apply a sunscreen with a sun
protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more. Use a lip balm with SPF 15, too.
Get more information about your prescription medication.
View Walgreens.com sun
care products.
If you're looking for more specific answers to specific questions, ask a Walgreens pharmacist here.
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Answers to questions regarding information about medications or health conditions are not for
diagnostic or treatment purposes and are not conclusive as to the presence or absence of any
health condition. Consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment of your medical condition.
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. Advances in medicine may cause
this information to become outdated, invalid or subject to debate. Professional opinions and
interpretations of the scientific literature may vary. Walgreens' terms of use and general
warranty disclaimer apply to all services provided. If you are in need of immediate medical
attention, contact your physician, poison control center or emergency medical professional. If
you need to speak with a pharmacist for non-emergency matters, contact your local Walgreens
pharmacist or call a Walgreens.com pharmacist toll-free at 1 (877) 250-5823.
