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Heat Alert: Medications That can Cause Problems in Hot Weather
Table of Contents
As a second amber heat health alert takes effect,pharmacists are warning individuals taking specific medications to take precautions as temperatures rise,with Monday potentially marking the hottest day of the year. Certain commonly prescribed drugs can interfere with the body’s natural cooling mechanisms, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses [1].
Medications and Heat Intolerance
Dipa Kamdar, senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, highlights that several medications can disrupt the body’s ability to regulate temperature through sweating, blood flow, and fluid balance. It’s crucial to continue taking prescribed medications but to implement strategies to mitigate potential issues.
did You Know? The human body uses several mechanisms to regulate temperature, including sweating and blood flow to the skin.
Antidepressants
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may exacerbate heat intolerance by affecting the body’s ability to sweat. These antidepressants influence neurotransmitter levels, potentially blocking acetylcholine, which is vital for sweating.Disrupted sweating can lead to heat-related illnesses and dehydration if fluids are not replenished [2].
Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics, used to treat psychosis, can disrupt the hypothalamus’s ability to sense and respond to body temperature changes by blocking dopamine. This can result in a reduced awareness of overheating and thirst, potentially causing low blood pressure and reduced heart function. Antipsychotics also have anticholinergic properties, further hindering sweating.
Heart Medications
Beta-blockers, commonly prescribed heart medications, lower heart rate and reduce the force with which the heart pumps, which can limit blood flow to the skin and impede the body’s ability to release heat. Diuretics, often used for high blood pressure or heart failure, increase urine output, potentially leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Ramipril and losartan, also used for blood pressure management, can increase dehydration risk by blocking systems that control blood pressure, fluid balance, and thirst.
Stimulants
Stimulants, such as amphetamines used for ADHD, affect brain chemicals like dopamine and noradrenaline, which can increase body temperature, boost metabolism, and alter sweating patterns. this can make it harder to cool down, potentially leading to dehydration, overheating, or heatstroke.Stimulants may also mask tiredness, causing individuals to overexert themselves.
Insulin
In warm temperatures, blood vessels dilate, causing insulin to be absorbed into the bloodstream faster, which can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level). heat can also degrade insulin, reducing its effectiveness. Insulin should be stored in the refrigerator until use. Damaged insulin may appear cloudy or change color [3].
Protecting Yourself During Hot Weather
Individuals taking these medications should take the following precautions:
- Check medication labels for storage instructions.
- Stay hydrated,unless advised otherwise by a doctor.
- Avoid peak heat hours and stay in cool environments.
- Watch for warning signs of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, confusion, or excessive sweating.
- Do not stop taking prescribed medication without medical advice.
Pro Tip: Dehydration can worsen the effects of many medicines. Such as,anti-inflammatory painkillers are more likely to cause kidney problems and bipolar medicines can become toxic if you’re dehydrated.
