The Health Sciences Authority (HSA), in consultation with its Product Vigilance Advisory Committee, would like to update healthcare professionals on the outcome of its review regarding the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) associated with hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) use. Two recent Danish epidemiological studies had suggested a cumulative dose-dependent association between its use and NMSC. HSA's review concluded that while the Danish studies may not be fully applicable to the local context, there is biological plausibility of patients developing NMSC due to the photosensitizing effects of HCTZ. Hence, healthcare professionals are advised to consider the possible risk of NMSC in the use of HCTZ in their patients.
Please refer to the Dear Healthcare Professional Letter (DHCPL) below for more details:
