Medications Intensify Risk of Heat-Related Illness

Pharmacist warns certain drugs can hamper body’s cooling process during heat waves.

As summer heat intensifies, awareness of how medications affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature becomes critical; some common drugs can significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Sweat Reduction

Certain medications can hinder the body’s natural cooling mechanisms, according to pharmacist Katie Czupryn. She notes that some drugs can prevent the body from producing enough sweat, impairing its ability to cool down.

“Certain medications can actually stop our body from producing enough sweat, and so that can decrease out body’s ability to actually cool itself down,” Czupryn said, listing allergy medications, antidepressants, and overactive bladder medications as examples.

When taking such medications, particularly in the summer, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during peak daylight hours. Hydration is also key. According to the CDC, heat-related deaths are preventable, but more than 700 people in the U.S. are killed by extreme heat every year. CDC Data

Heightened Sun Sensitivity

Certain medications can also make people more susceptible to sunburn. Czupryn points out that some drugs can increase sun sensitivity, thus raising the risk of sun burns.

“Think about some of our antibiotics like Doxycycline, or our Fluoroquinolone medications like Ciprofloxacin or Levofloxacin or some of our heart medications like Amiodarone or acne medications like Isotretinoin like those can increase sun sensitivity so the importance of sunscreen becomes even more so in those cases as well,” Czupryn stated.

Protection Tips

To stay safe in the sun, remember to apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and opt for light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Above all, be attuned to your body’s signals, and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of heat-related illness.