A study of persistent photosensitivity as a sequel of the prior administration of the drug benoxaprofen

Abstract

Cutaneous photosensitivity is a recognized side-effect of a number of commonly used groups of drugs, among which are the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) one of which, benoxaprofen, was withdrawn from use in 1982. The abnormal reaction of the skin to light usually occurs during the period of the systemic administration of the drug, but may with some drugs persist for longer, even for months. Chronic photosensitivity, i.e. 'persistent light reaction' of some years duration, continuing after the withdrawal of the primary cause, has so far only been reliably reported when the initial exposure of the skin to the photoactive substance has been by external contact and not following ingestion. A suggestion that photosensitivity could persist for a period of years as a sequel of initial benoxaprofen-induced photosensitivity was studied in a group of 42 subjects said to be affected in this way. The results failed to confirm the presence of persistent photosensitivity. It appeared that the probable explanation for the episodic abnormal reactions to light over the years since 1982 was the systemic administration of other photoactive drugs including a series of NSAIDs.