Skin side effects in Lupus patient after AmLactin and Pramosone

Question

I went to the dermatologist in Oct 2011 with itching skin on my forearms even with using AmLactin. I was prescribed Pramosone. The itching was still there after using about 3/4 of a 4 ounce bottle, so I gradually got off of it. I believe I had discontinued it prior to March when I became very sensitive to even slight sun exposure.

I have been to different doctors with this problem. I tested postive for Lupus this month although I was suspected of having it for years. One doctor suggested that certain drugs may cause sun senitivity and that I should research all drugs that I am taking. I have learned that with certain medical conditions Pramsone shoud not be used. Since some Lupus patients are sensetive to sun I wonder if Pramosone was a good choice for me.

Even brief sun exposure in early morning will cause severe itching and burning within minutes of exposure and triger the itching and burning for days.  How long should I expect this reaction to last if this is a reaction of a Lupus patient to either one of these drugs and sun exposure? Thanks

Answer 1

People with Lupus tend to be much more prone to adverse reactions involving skin, especially in the sun exposed areas of the skin. That said, an adverse reaction lasting for many months after discontinuation of the treatment (if I understood your post correctly) suggest that something else might be going on.

Your doctor has sensibly suggested researching other drugs you are taking -- some drugs do contribute to skin sensitivity. Consider also evaluating household items coming in contact with your skin, such as chlorinated water, poorly rinsed bleached clothing or whatever else may irritate skin in sensitive people.

It is also conceivable that while amlactin or pramosone has triggered your initial outbreak, it continues simply because the its primary cause is the underlying Lupus and simply removing the original trigger was not enough. Make sure you are under the care of a good rheumatologist -- bringing Lupus under control may improve your skin symptoms as well.