Drug-Induced Photosensitivity: Photoallergic, Phototoxic and Adverse Drug Reactions

Background: Drug-induced photosensitivity refers to skin reactions caused by exposure to ultraviolet light following the use of certain medications, which can be administered topically or orally. When ultraviolet radiation interacts with a chemical present in adequate concentrations within the skin, it may trigger various reactions, particularly in susceptible individuals. The most common responses are photoallergic and phototoxic reactions. Methods: In this paper, we discussed about drug-induced photosensitivity: Photoallergic, phototoxic and adverse drug reactions, and some of those medication that leads to these conditions. Results: Photosensitive drug eruptions are cutaneous adverse events due to exposure to a medication and either ultraviolet or visible radiation. Conclusion: Photosensitive drugs (PSDs) represent an important research area and more investigations would be helpful to better predict drug photosensitizing potential, prevent and manage cutaneous adverse events and find the most appropriate alternative therapeutic strategy. As well as, various medications, particularly antibiotics and analgesics, can induce both photoallergic and phototoxic reactions, there are significant differences between the two, including their onset timing, requirement for prior exposure, underlying mechanisms, clinical presentation, and histopathological features.