Sunscreens are regarded as drugs when prescribed for skin protection (ACBS) against ultraviolet radiation and/or visible light in abnormal cutaneous photosensitivity causing severe cutaneous reactions in genetic disorders (including xeroderma pigmentosum and porphyrias), severe photodermatoses (both idiopathic and acquired) and in those with increased risk of ultraviolet radiation causing adverse effects due to chronic disease (such as haematological malignancies), medical therapies and/or procedures.
| Therapeutic Area | Formulary Choices | Cost for 28 (unless otherwise stated) | Rationale for decision / comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antineoplastic drugs, Antimetabolites | Fluorouracil as Efudix® | 5% cream: £32.90 (40g) | First line for Actinic keratosis. |
| Fluorouracil as Tolak® | 4% cream: £28.00 (20g) | An alternative option if first line option is unavailable. | |
| Analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs | Diclofenac 3% gel as Solaraze® | 3% gel: £38.30 (50g) | |
| Antivirals, immune response modifiers | Imiquimod as Aldara® | 5% cream: £48.60 (12 x 250mg sachet) | |
| Anti-neoplastic drugs, protein kinase inhibitor | Tirbanibulin as Klisyri® | 10mg/g ointment: £59.00 (5 x 250mg sachet) |