Mercaptopurine & Sun Sensitivity

[Mystygal]

Hi all, when I started taking Mercaptopurine after my diagnosis mid last year I tried to avoid sun exposure due to the heightened sun sensitivity this drug causes. Even though I wore sunscreen, long sleeves etc, I still managed to get burnt on my face through the glass at a restaurant! What I'm wondering is, does this sensitivity decrease over time as I feel I' m no more prudent than I was initially & have not had any burning issues for many months.
Thanks for your thoughts

 

[Michelle89]

I'm not on the same meds so can't speak directly to that, but guessing from other meds I've seen people taking it seems common to have sun sensitivity or even higher risks of skin cancers. I'm currently on Imuran and have added Humira so I am in that group as well. :-/

You said you were wearing sunscreen, but could you wear a stronger spf on exposed skin like face?

 

[Jennifer]

I was told to limit my sun exposure as well when I first started taking 6MP yet I didn't notice getting burned more often than before I was on it. I agree with trying a stronger SPF (SPF 30 or higher is suggested) and if that doesn't help then contact your doctor.