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Common painkillers can raise your sunburn risk, MHRA warns

Published 12:25 9 Aug 2026 BST

Updated 12:25 9 Aug 2026 BST

JOE
Common painkillers can raise your sunburn risk, MHRA warns

Homelifestyle

The warning comes ahead of heatwave forecasts.

Common painkillers including ibuprofen could increase your chance of getting sunburn, Britain's health watchdog has warned, as the country braces for its fifth heatwave of the summer with temperatures set to hit 36C next week.

Which medicines raise your sunburn risk

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen can increase sensitivity to the sun, making burns more likely.

Other treatments that can heighten sensitivity include antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline, acne treatments like isotretinoin and topical retinoids, and antifungal medicines such as voriconazole.

Diuretics, some antidepressants and beta blockers can also affect how the body copes with heat.

Officials stressed people should not stop prescribed medication without professional advice – and you can find more tips on how to keep cool in the heatwave.

Some commonly used medicines can affect the body's ability to stay hydrated, regulate temperature, or protect itself from sun exposure. Simple precautions can make a significant difference.

Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, urged the public to stay hydrated, avoid the strongest midday sun and use protective clothing and sunscreen, as the MHRA warned ahead of the hot spell.

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