Summer Health Tips From FamilyWize

Our friends at FamilyWize, a United Way partner, believe in building better and healthier communities through strong, healthy people. Below are some tips to keep in mind while enjoying the last few weeks of summer!

We love the warmth and sun of summer, but there are some things you should consider in relation to your health during these months. Not only can some medicines be harmed by heat or sunlight, but you can be harmed by the sun when you are taking certain medications.

There are several risks related to sun and medicine. In a nutshell, these include:

Sun-damaged drugs – medicines can become less effective when exposed to heat, which means they won’t work as well. Be sure to read the labels and ask your pharmacist about the best way to store your medicine.

Phototoxic reactions – You may have a reaction that can be dangerous resulting from taking certain medicines and exposure to the sun. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist when taking medicines and follow the directions for medicines that cause phototoxic reactions. Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen.

Photoallergic reactions – Some medications can cause allergic reactions that cause skin reactions. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the medications you are taking and take precautions with sun exposure.

Be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist when you are taking medicines and be healthy while you are enjoying the summer sun.

For more sun safety tips, visit the FamilyWize blog.

About FamilyWize: FamilyWize is a United Way partner with the goal to provide Prescription Assistance to those who are uninsured, underinsured or simply need prescription assistance during difficult times. The goal of their organization is to is to reduce the cost of prescription medicine for children, families and individuals by $1 billion by the end of 2015. FamilyWize believes that stronger, healthier and happier people make healthier and better communities. To download your FamilyWize prescription savings card go to: www.familywize.org/rx

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