Does anyone else on psych drugs get white patches (sun spots) when going to a tanning bed?

Question

I have been getting those white patches lately as I have been going to the high excellerated tanning beds. Years ago I was on different meds and didn't have a problem

I am on:
Lamictal
Trileptal
Paxil and
Seroquel
Anyone else get them, what do you do?

Answer 1

I was on amitryptiline (an antidepressant) and it caused photosensitivity. It even went into sun poisoning. Many of the "mental health" drugs seem to do this. I did not have this before I went on the medication but have been off of it for several years and still have the problem.

I really didn't do anything about this because the medication was working for me. Luckily, I live in Alaska and can avoid the sun more easily than other people.

Answer 2

You should not be exposed to UV rays as these meds make you more sensitive. You need to use a good sunscreen on any exposed areas anytime you go outside or use a tanning bed. Also you are greatly increasing your risk of skin cancer by tanning and skin cancer doesn't care if you are 15 or 95 years old. If not caught in time it often deadly. For the white patches stop tanning and see a dermatologist and get this checked out right away.

Answer 3

Sorry, but steer clear of tanning beds, and even summer sunlight.
These drugs are known to have these effects if you are exposed to uv. Your doctor should have told you, or it should tell you on the info in the packet.
You are putting yourself at risk of skin cancer to be sure, and simply burning.