ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Many substances are known to undergo a variety of chemical reactions as the result of exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR); drugs are no exception. EMR having wavelengths from 290 to 400 nm is of particular interest in this regard, although radiation of longer visible wavelengths (i.e., 400-800 nm) may also be of some concern. Drug formulations are exposed to a variety of EMR sources during manufacture, packaging, distribution, on pharmacy shelves, and at the point of use. These exposures may include Hg vapor lamps, fluorescent and incandescent lighting, window-filtered sunlight and direct sunlight.
