As helpful as many medications are for managing various conditions, there’s always the risk of side effects. For example, Lamictal, used as an anti-seizure medication and also to treat bipolar disorder, carries with it the risk of a skin rash. This rash is rarely serious and typically stops when medication is stopped.
This can be a tricky situation, because the very medication that is treating one issue can cause others. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you should stop taking medication, especially if what it is treating is serious. A dermatologist may be able to help you manage skin issues that result as a side effect from medications you are taking.
If you have any concerns about side effects from medications that you are taking and you want to know about the various options available to you, consult with your doctor. Based on your medical history and needs, they will be able to make appropriate recommendations. In the meantime, your dermatologist may be able to help you manage skin issues.
What Medications Can Cause Skin Issues?
Remember when it comes to side effects from medications that everyone is different. Just because one person experienced skin issues on a medication doesn’t mean that someone else taking the same medication will also experience those same skin issues. While some side effects are common, others are very rare. Your doctor should advise you on what side effects you can expect to experience when going on medication.
Medications that can cause skin issues include:
- Anti-seizure medications
- Blood pressure drugs
- Acne medications
- Antihistamines
- Cholesterol medications
- And more
If you are taking multiple medications together, this can increase your risk for skin issues. If you have thinner skin, such as if you are elderly, you may be at an increased risk for skin complications from medications.
What Skin Issues Can Result From Medications?
Skin issues that result from taking medications can vary from very mild to severe and life-threatening. Your doctor will consult with you about the side effects from any medications they prescribe and answer any questions that you have. If you experience side effects, they will work with you in order to figure out how to manage them and prevent them from potentially turning into something serious. If your side effects are severe, your doctor may recommend switching medications.
Some common skin issues that can occur as side effects from medications include:
- Dry skin
- Itchy skin
- Rashes
- Photosensitivity
- Acne
- Peeling/flakey/crusty skin
- Reddened or darkened skin
- Swelling
- Blisters
- Skin sensitivity
- Sores
- Hyperpigmentation
- Hypopigmentation
- Bruising easily
Dermatologists also treat hair loss, which can result from various medications and treatments.
How Do You Manage Skin Issues From Medications?
Your doctor and dermatologist can help you manage skin issue side effects from medications. If your skin issues that result from side effects from taking medication become severe or otherwise unmanageable, talk to your doctor. They will be able to discuss alternatives with you.
That said, here are some common ways to manage skin issues from medications.
Hydration
Hydration is key to deal with dry skin, medically induced or in general. You’ll also want to avoid things that can dehydrate you, such as caffeine and alcohol. In addition to just drinking water, you can get hydration through your diet too, such as with omega-3 fatty acids – a salmon rice bowl, anyone? Applying an ultra-hydrating moisturizer on damp skin can also help to lock in moisture.
Call Your Doctor
Whenever you are experiencing a side effect from a medication and you’re concerned about it, it’s important to call your doctor. It may or may not be a sign that the medication is not right for you. Regardless, your doctor should know about all side effects you experience from taking medication. Make sure that your doctor knows about all medications and supplements you take.
Your doctor will be able to help you with side effects you experience. They may also recommend working with a dermatologist, as dermatologists are skin experts. If a side effect concerns you, don’t ignore it. Make sure that your medical team knows about it so that they can best help you.
Are You Having Skin Issues?
Whether your skin issues are the result of side effects from medication or not, Allen Taintor Dermatology is here to help. We treat all sorts of skin problems from acne to skin cancer. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your skin problems and improve your skin’s health.