Common Painkillers Increase Risk of Sunburn, Health Watchdog Warns

As Britain swelters through its fifth heatwave this summer, the country’s health watchdog has sounded a warning about the unexpected dangers lurking in our medicine cabinets. A recent alert from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reveals that common painkillers like ibuprofen can increase sensitivity to the sun, making burns more likely.

This is particularly concerning given the prolonged heatwave conditions forecast for next week. Temperatures are set to soar to 36C in parts of East Anglia and southeast England by Thursday, putting vulnerable individuals at heightened risk of heat-related illnesses. While most people associate sunburn with neglecting sunscreen or staying out too long in the sun, the MHRA’s warning highlights a critical but often overlooked factor: our medication.

Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, emphasizes that “simple precautions can make a significant difference” when it comes to reducing risk. However, for those who are particularly vulnerable – older adults, people with chronic conditions, and those taking multiple prescription drugs – this advice may ring hollow. The fact remains that some commonly prescribed medications interfere with the body’s natural mechanisms for regulating temperature, making it harder to stay cool.

Diuretics, often prescribed for blood pressure or heart conditions, can increase fluid loss and make dehydration more likely. Some antidepressants and antipsychotics can affect the body’s ability to regulate its internal thermostat, while medicines like beta blockers may reduce the body’s response to heat stress. These medications can have a multifaceted impact on the body’s ability to regulate temperature.

Warning signs of increased sensitivity linked to medication include dizziness, headaches, unusual fatigue, confusion or reduced urination – all indicators that the body is struggling in the heat. Skin reactions to sun exposure, such as redness, soreness, and blistering, may also be a sign of increased sensitivity.

In light of this, individuals should check their patient information leaflets for advice on sun exposure and hydration. The MHRA’s alert is not new; last month, doctors warned people on certain mental health medications to take extra precautions ahead of another heatwave. Dr Nick Broughton advised patients to “not stop taking their medication suddenly” but to speak to their GP, pharmacist or mental health team for advice if they need to.

As heatwave conditions return, with new yellow health heat alerts in place across England until Tuesday, it’s imperative that we take a closer look at our medication and its potential impact on our bodies. The public must be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions. In the absence of clear guidelines from healthcare providers, individuals are left to weigh the need to manage chronic conditions against the risk of heat-related illnesses.

This is particularly concerning for those who cannot afford to change their medication regimen or balance competing health needs. Only by acknowledging these risks can we begin to mitigate them, ensuring that everyone – regardless of age or health condition – stays safe in the heat.