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skin changes caused by a medicine

overview

skin changes are a common side effect of many prescription and non-prescription medicines. common side effects include:

  • rash. any medicine can cause a rash. two examples are aspirin and antibiotics.
  • colour changes in the skin. a few examples of medicines that can cause this are:
    • birth control pills.
    • medicines for heart rhythm problems, such as amiodarone.
    • antibiotics.
    • cancer medicines.
    • seizure medicines.
  • reactions when the skin is exposed to sunlight. many medicines can cause these reactions. the reaction may include just the skin that was exposed to the sun (phototoxic reaction), or it can spread to other areas of the skin (photoallergic reaction).

if you think that your skin changes may be caused by a medicine:

  • call the doctor who prescribed the medicine to find out if you should stop taking the medicine or take a different one. an appointment may not be necessary.
  • if you are taking a non-prescription medicine, stop taking it. call your doctor if you feel you need to continue taking the medicine.

credits

current as of: november 16, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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