TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – As temperatures climb, doctors warn the summer heat can do more than drain your energy — it can change how some common medications work in your body.
Dr. Nirmala Cheatham, a CHRISTUS Health Jacksonville physician, says the type of medication you take — and how long you’re in the sun — could increase your risk.
“It can make side effects a lot more pronounced. It can make side effects a lot more intense,” Cheatham said. “You’re more likely to get more dehydrated out in the sun and in the heat and not even be aware of it.”
Cheatham says heart and blood pressure medications, antibiotics, and antidepressants are among common prescriptions with side effects that can increase dehydration risk or affect the way your body regulates heat.
“I encourage everyone, especially in this East Texas weather, to stay as hydrated as possible, especially if you’re going outside,” Cheatham said.
Over the counter medications can also add risk
It’s not only prescription medication. David Davis, the pharmacy manager at Drug Emporium in Tyler, says over the counter antihistamines and diuretics can also contribute to dehydration and sun sensitivity.
“If you have been in Texas at all, it’s the nature of the beast that it’s going to be a hot summer,” Davis said. “We don’t really think about that when it comes to our medication.”
What the CDC says about medications and heat
The CDC warns that several commonly prescribed medications can increase the risk of harm from heat exposure — including diuretics, anticholinergic agents, and some psychotropic medications.
For children and adolescents, the CDC says medications that may increase heat-related illness risk include antihistamines , stimulants for ADHD, antidepressants, SSRIs, and diuretics.
The CDC says medications can contribute to heat sensitivity in several ways, including:
Reducing thirst sensationInterfering with thermoregulationImpairing sweating and coolingCausing volume depletion or low blood pressure, raising the risk of fainting and fallsReducing the body’s ability to dissipate heatIncreasing drug toxicity when dehydration reduces medication clearanceTriggering electrolyte imbalancesCausing sedation or cognitive impairment, which can increase fall risk and reduce awareness of dehydrationDon’t store medication in a hot car
Davis also warns not to leave medications in your car or in window seals because high temperatures can affect how well they work.
“All your medications need to have a controlled room temperature and/or refrigerated temperature,” Davis said. “You do not want to get any of your medications excessively hot. They will begin to break down and not work properly.”
When to get help
If you’re worried the heat could affect your medication’s side effects, Davis says talk to your doctor or pharmacist before spending time outside.
And if you start feeling dizzy, confused, or nauseous in the heat, Cheatham says to get into a cool place, drink water, and seek medical help if symptoms don’t improve.
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