People's Pharmacy

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Noxzema Works Against Itchy Skin

Posting Date: 06/14/2004

Q. I am taking Dyazide for high blood pressure and have developed skin rashes and itching when exposed to the sun even after generous coatings with sunscreen. What is it and why does exposure to sunshine cause this reaction? Can I do something to prevent it? I live in sunny California and it?s hard to avoid the sun!

A. A surprising number of prescription and OTC medicines can cause sun sensitivity. Dyazide is just one. Many antibiotics, blood pressure pills, arthritis medicine and antidepressants can make people far more vulnerable to a rash or bad burn.

To protect yourself you will need a very high SPF sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation. Seek special UV protective clothing and a hat that also screens out ultraviolet radiation. There are also umbrellas that can keep damaging rays off your skin.

If all else fails, your doctor may want to consider prescribing a different blood pressure medication. We are sending you our Guide to Skin Care & Treatment, with a list of medicines associated with sun sensitivity and a discussion of sunscreen. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. S-28, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Your eyes may also be more susceptible to UV damage. Wear a pair of 100 percent UV-blocking sunglasses whenever you are outside.

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In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org. Their newest book is The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies (St. Martin's Press).