Can Common Painkillers Make You Burn More Easily in the Sun?

As temperatures rise across the UK, health experts are reminding people that staying safe in hot weather involves more than drinking plenty of water and applying sunscreen. Some commonly used medicines can also affect how the body responds to heat and sunlight.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has warned that certain medicines may increase sensitivity to sunlight, potentially making sunburn more likely. Among the medicines highlighted are familiar painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

The warning comes as the UK prepares for another spell of very hot weather, with temperatures expected to reach around 36C in parts of England.

Why can some medicines increase sun sensitivity?

Sunlight contains ultraviolet radiation, commonly known as UV radiation. Too much exposure can damage the skin, causing redness, inflammation and sunburn.

Certain medicines can make the skin more sensitive to UV radiation. This reaction is known as photosensitivity. People taking these medicines may find that they burn more quickly or develop a stronger skin reaction than they normally would after spending time outdoors.

Ibuprofen and naproxen belong to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. They are widely used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

However, they are not the only medicines that can cause problems in strong sunlight.

Some antibiotics, including doxycycline and tetracycline, can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Certain acne medicines, including isotretinoin and topical retinoids, may also require extra care. Some antifungal treatments, including voriconazole, have similarly been associated with increased sensitivity.

This does not mean people should stop taking these medicines. Instead, anyone using medication should check the relevant patient information and seek professional advice if they are uncertain about sun exposure.

Heat can create another problem

Sun sensitivity is only part of the issue.

Some medicines can also influence the body's ability to cope with high temperatures. Normally, the body maintains a safe internal temperature through several mechanisms, including sweating, changes in blood flow to the skin and maintaining an appropriate fluid balance.

Certain medicines can interfere with these processes.

Diuretics, sometimes known as water tablets, are commonly prescribed for conditions such as high blood pressure and some heart problems. Because they increase the amount of fluid lost from the body through urination, they can contribute to dehydration in hot conditions.

Some antidepressants and antipsychotic medicines can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature. Beta blockers may also alter the body's response to heat and physical stress.

For someone taking several medicines, these effects may overlap. This is particularly important for people who are older, have long-term health conditions or take multiple prescription medicines.

What symptoms should you watch for?

During very hot weather, it is important to recognise signs that the body is struggling to cope.

Possible warning signs include dizziness, headaches, unusual tiredness, confusion and passing urine less frequently than normal.

Changes in the skin can also be significant. Redness, soreness, blistering or an unusually strong reaction after being in the sun may indicate sun damage or increased sensitivity.

If someone develops severe confusion, becomes very unwell or shows signs of serious heat-related illness, urgent medical assistance may be necessary.

People should also pay attention to how they feel after taking medication and spending time outdoors. If something seems unusual, speaking with a pharmacist or doctor can help determine whether medication could be contributing to the problem.

How can you stay safer during a heatwave?

Fortunately, several straightforward precautions can reduce the risks.

First, stay hydrated. Drink fluids regularly and take particular care during periods of prolonged heat or physical activity. People taking medicines that affect fluid balance should follow advice from their healthcare professional rather than making medication changes themselves.

Second, reduce direct exposure to the strongest sunshine. Where possible, spend time in the shade and avoid prolonged outdoor activity around the hottest part of the day.

Protective clothing can also provide useful protection. Lightweight clothing that covers the skin, along with a hat and sunglasses, can help reduce direct exposure.

Sunscreen remains important. Use an appropriate sunscreen and reapply it as directed, particularly after swimming, sweating or spending extended periods outdoors.

It is also worth checking the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Information about sun exposure, hydration and other precautions may be included there.

Should you stop taking your medicine?

This is one of the most important points for anyone taking regular medication.

Hot weather does not automatically mean that prescribed medicines should be stopped or doses should be changed.

Stopping some medicines suddenly can create serious health problems. This is particularly relevant to medicines prescribed for mental health conditions, heart problems, blood pressure and other chronic conditions.

Health professionals therefore advise people to seek individual guidance from a GP, pharmacist or relevant healthcare team if they are concerned about a medicine during a heatwave.

The safest approach is to understand the potential side effects and take sensible precautions rather than making changes independently.

Who needs to be especially careful?

Although anyone can become dehydrated or suffer sunburn, some people face a greater risk during periods of extreme heat.

Older adults can be particularly vulnerable. People living with heart or lung conditions may also have greater difficulty coping with high temperatures.

Those taking several prescription medicines should pay close attention to heat and hydration advice because different medicines can have different effects on the body's ability to regulate temperature or maintain fluid balance.

People who spend significant amounts of time outdoors, including outdoor workers and those exercising in hot weather, should also take precautions.

The bigger lesson for hot weather

A heatwave can affect health in ways that are easy to overlook. Medication is one factor that deserves attention, particularly when temperatures remain high for several days.

The key message is not to panic about commonly prescribed medicines. Instead, people should understand how their medication may interact with heat and sunlight.

Checking the patient information leaflet, staying hydrated, limiting exposure to intense sunshine, wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen are practical steps that can reduce risk.

Most importantly, prescribed medication should not be stopped suddenly without professional advice. If you are unsure whether your medicine could make you more vulnerable to sunlight, dehydration or overheating, a pharmacist or GP can provide advice based on your individual circumstances.

As another period of hot weather approaches, taking a few extra precautions could make spending time outdoors considerably safer.

Sources

The Independent on 10 August 2026, including guidance attributed to the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), NHS England and the Met Office.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Medication affects people differently, and you should not stop, change or reduce a prescribed medicine because of information in this article. If you have concerns about medication, heat exposure, sun sensitivity or dehydration, speak with a qualified pharmacist, GP or other appropriate healthcare professional. If you experience severe or rapidly worsening symptoms during hot weather, seek urgent medical assistance.