I have recurring skin cancers and have been recently researching some of the medications I am taking because I’ve been switched from propranolol to candesartan for my migraines. I have found quite a lot of worrying information regarding link with medications and skin cancer.
Source: ECRjournal.com
“The association between diuretics, in particular thiazides, and skin cancer is supported by the fact that they are photosensitisers, causing direct damage to DNA and chronic subclinical skin inflammation. However, photosensitivity is also a common reaction to many widely used drugs, such as antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and statins, which are often used in the polypharmacy of hypertensive patients.29,30 Self-reported consumption of diuretics, including thiazides, was associated with an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in a nationwide US population-based cohort study”.
This is just some of the info I’ve found. I also didn’t realise how my cymbalata has increased the photosensitivity of my skin so much , but it all makes sense now , why in the past my skin seemed to turn red even in 5 mins of sun.
I’m now worried about taking my medications. I have had to speak to a pharmacist and there is a link.
Has anyone else been concerned about their medication and skin cancer?
Hi
I'm not personally aware of medication having a link to having skin cancer. I would certainly speak to your GP or dermatologist before you stop taking any medication.
x
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
yes I have been taking immune suppressant drugs since 2016 and just received the devastating news on Friday I have SCC due to my medication and only have months/year left! Absolutely gutted as trusted the consultants who were treating my Rheumatoid Arthritis to treat my condition safely, it has spread right through my lymph nodes 
I'm so sorry to read this bresel
It must have come as a tremendous shock, especially as SCC doesn't usually spread. Has your consultant discussed what sort of treatment you might be having?
You might want to look at joining the living with incurable cancer group where you can talk about anything with others who have an incurable diagnosis. They are a great bunch of characters.
x
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
I've just realised that you're not a member of this group yet bresel . To join the group just click on the banner at the bottom of the page or the link on the right hand side, depending on the type of advice you're using. You can then start your own post.
It would be great if you could pop something about your diagnosis and treatment so far into your profile as it really helps others when replying to you and also when looking for someone on a similar pathway. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.
Let me know how it goes on Friday
((hugs))
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
Unfortunately Oncology consultation has been moved another week so waiting longer
