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List of Light Sensitive Medications

There are more than 200 different medications which are light sensitive. The chemical composition of these medications can be altered by exposure to direct light; therefore, the medications should be stored in colored bottles and out of direct light. Light sensitive medications include Adderall, alprazolam, gemifloxacin, hydromorphone and zolmitriptan. Following are some examples but the list is far from complete. Check with a doctor or pharmacist for more detailed storage instructions and to determine whether your medication is light sensitive.

  1. Adderall

    • Adderall is frequently prescribed to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy. It is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system and brain to alleviate hyperactivity and enhance impulse control. Adderall may be habit-forming and should not be taken with MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors such as phenelzine, rasagiline or isocarboxazid. Potential side effects include allergic reaction, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, dizziness, diminished appetite, dry mouth, constipation and sexual dysfunction. According to Drugs.com, Adderall should be stored away from light, moisture or heat.

    Alprazolam

    • Alprazolam is prescribed to treat panic disorders and anxiety. It is a benzodiazepine medication which affects the chemical balance in the brain to alleviate anxiety. Alprazolam may be habit-forming and should not be taken with alcohol, ketoconazole or itaconazole, or by patients with benzodiazepine allergies. Possible side effects include increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, drowsiness, forgetfulness, nausea, blurry vision, constipation, diminished libido and allergic reaction. According to Drugs.com, alprazolam should be stored away from light, moisture or heat.

    Gemifloxacin

    • Gemifloxacin is an antibiotic prescribed to treat various bacterial infections. It belongs to the fluoroquinolones family of medications and should not be taken within three hours of taking vitamins, mineral supplements, antacids or sucralfate. Potential side effects include increased sensitivity to light, tearing/swelling of a tendon, diarrhea, joint pain, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety and restlessness. According to Drugs.com, gemifloxacin should be stored away from light, moisture or heat.

    Hydromorphone

    • Hydromorphone is a narcotic medication which works to alleviate severe pain by binding to specific receptors in the nervous system and brain. Hydromorphone may be habit-forming and should not be used by patients with COPD, certain heart or breathing problems, pregnant women or patients with brain injury. Possible side effects include drowsiness, flushing, dizziness, lightheadedness, vomiting and increased perspiration. According to Drug Topics, hydromorphone should be stored away from light.

    Zolmitriptan

    • Zolmitriptan is prescribed to treat acute migraines. It belongs to the triptan family of medication and works by constricting the blood vessels that are believed to cause migraines. Zolmitriptan should not be use with other triptan medications, sibutramine or with MAO inhibitors such as phenelzine, rasagiline or isocarboxazid. Possible side effects include dizziness, sensations of warm/cold, increased skin sensitivity, pain, nausea and drowsiness. According to Drug Topics, zolmitriptan should be stored away from light, moisture and heat.

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