Photosensitivity associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

V. Doffoel-Hantz , C. Boulitrop-Morvan , Agnès Sparsa , S. Dalac , C. Bédane , Jean-Marie Bonnetblanc (1)

1 ERMA - Equipe de Recherche Médicale Appliquée

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a widely prescribed group of antidepressants. We report three cases of photosensitivity induced by fluvoxamine and paroxetine. These photoallergic reactions suggest cross-reactivity between different molecules. Methylation metabolism could explain common photosensitization. Although these drugs are widely prescribed, such photosensitization is rare. Nevertheless, we consider that clinicians and patients should be aware of the risk of photosensitization and these drugs should be stopped before phototherapy or prolonged sun exposure.

Domaines: Sciences du Vivant [q-bio]; Médecine humaine et pathologie

V. Doffoel-Hantz, C. Boulitrop-Morvan, Agnès Sparsa, S. Dalac, C. Bédane, et al.. Photosensitivity associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2009, 34 (8), pp.e763-5. ⟨10.1111/j.1365-2230.2009.03484.x⟩. ⟨hal-00738792⟩