Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Precision Implementation of Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing to Assess Individual Variation in Human Inflammatory Response
Published on: October 3, 2019
Persistent severe amiodarone-induced photosensitivity
S S Yones1, N B O'Donoghue, R A Palmer
1Photobiology Unit, St John's Institute of Dermatology, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK. Sami.yones@kcl.ac.uk
Abstract:
Amiodarone, a benzofuran derivative, has been used therapeutically as an antiarrhythmic and coronary vasodilator in Europe since 1964. One of its commoner side effects is cutaneous photosensitivity; more rarely, after ingestion of the drug for around 12 months, a slate-grey or violaceous discoloration of sun-exposed sites may gradually develop. Both of these side effects usually resolve within 2 years of discontinuation of the drug. We now present a woman who developed both photosensitivity and a slate-grey discoloration whilst taking amiodarone; on discontinuation of the drug, the dyspigmentation gradually resolved, but the photosensitivity has persisted and the patient remains symptomatic more than 17 years later.
Related Concept Videos
Allergic Drug Reactions
Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Class I Agents as Sodium Channel Blockers
Class 1A Antiarrhythmic Drugs: These drugs work by moderately blocking sodium channels,...
Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Class III Agents as Potassium Channel Blockers
Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions
Drug toxicity: Idiosyncratic Reactions

