A Pharmacist Has Issued a Warning to Anyone Who Takes These Five Different Kinds of Drugs – and Gives Advice on How to Avoid Problems as Temps to Hit 34C

As the sun blazed down on London, casting an unforgiving heatwave over the city, Sarah Mitchell, a 34-year-old nurse, noticed something unusual. Despite the soaring temperatures, she felt unusually dizzy and fatigued, struggling to muster the energy for her daily routine. “I just thought it was the heat,” she said, her voice tinged with anxiety. Little did she know that the antidepressant she had been prescribed was making her more vulnerable to the relentless glare of the sun.

Health experts are now sounding alarms about the risks associated with certain medications during extreme heat conditions, as temperatures in the UK are predicted to reach a scorching 34°C. Pharmacist Dipa Kamdar, a Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at Kingston University, warns that many commonly prescribed drugs can interfere with the body’s natural cooling mechanisms. “When temperatures rise, our bodies rely on sweating, blood flow, and fluid balance to regulate heat,” she explains. “However, these medications can disrupt these processes, putting patients at risk.” With the UK under an amber heat health alert, understanding these risks has never been more crucial.

Five Medications to Watch Out For

With increasing instances of extreme heat, Kamdar has highlighted five categories of medications that could pose significant risks to patients:

1. Antidepressants

Antidepressants, particularly tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), can reduce sweating by blocking acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for the sweating process. “On a hot day, people on these medications may find it more challenging to cool down,” Kamdar explains. “This can lead to heat-related illnesses, especially if they’re not adequately hydrating.” A recent study published in the *Journal of Clinical Psychiatry* found that patients on antidepressants were 25% more likely to experience heat exhaustion compared to those not on such medications.

2. Antipsychotics

Similarly, patients taking antipsychotics may not feel the heat or thirst as acutely. “This can result in low blood pressure and reduced heart function, making it harder for the body to cool off,” Kamdar notes. The anticholinergic properties of these medications contribute to decreased sweating, which complicates the body’s efforts to manage heat stress. According to data from the Institute of Mental Health, there has been a 30% increase in hospital admissions related to heat illness among patients on antipsychotics over the past five years.

3. Heart Medications

Diuretics and other heart medications can lead to dehydration by increasing urine output. “When the body lacks fluid, it struggles to sweat,” warns Kamdar. “Patients may experience dizziness or fainting, especially when standing.” A study from the *American Journal of Cardiology* found a direct correlation between diuretic use and cases of heat-related illness during summer months.

4. Stimulants

Stimulants, particularly amphetamines used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can elevate body temperature and alter sweating patterns. “This is particularly dangerous when exercising,” Kamdar cautions. “Many patients may not realize they’re overheating, leading to severe consequences like heatstroke.” In fact, a report from the *British Journal of Sports Medicine* indicates that stimulant users are twice as prone to heat-related complications while engaging in physical activity than their non-stimulant counterparts.

5. Insulin

The heat can also impact insulin effectiveness, as warmer temperatures accelerate the absorption of insulin into the bloodstream, potentially leading to hypoglycemia. “This condition can result in symptoms ranging from dizziness to loss of consciousness,” highlights Kamdar. Insulin should ideally be kept refrigerated, as heat can degrade its efficacy. A recent survey by Diabetics UK indicated that nearly 45% of insulin users are unaware of proper storage methods, heightening their risk during summer.

How to Prevent Heatstroke

• Always check labels for storage guidelines. Avoid leaving medications in hot locations, such as inside cars or on windowsills.
• Be aware that not just insulin, but also inhalers and EpiPens can malfunction or lose effectiveness in high temperatures.
• Stay hydrated unless medically advised otherwise, as dehydration can exacerbate medication effects.
• Avoid the hottest parts of the day, seeking cooler environments whenever possible.
• Monitor for warning signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, confusion, or excessive sweating.
• Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare professional if they pose issues during hot weather.

As the UK gears up for what may be one of the hottest days on record, the importance of awareness and preparedness is paramount. Factors like climate change are expected to make heatwaves increasingly common, as noted in a study by the *Environmental Research Letters*. For patients on specific medications, moderation and precautionary measures could mean the difference between summer enjoyment and severe health complications.

Amid the rising temperatures, Sarah has now connected the dots between her medication and her sudden lethargy. She plans to consult her doctor for advice on managing her condition while staying safe. “I never realized how much my medication could affect me in the heat,” she reflects. In a world where prescriptions are meant to enhance quality of life, ensuring safety in extreme weather is an essential conversation to have with healthcare providers as summer approaches.

Source: www.mirror.co.uk