Summer means sun and warmth for many – but for those taking certain medications, high temperatures can quickly become a health risk.
Some medicines interfere with the body’s ability to regulate its temperature. Here’s an overview of the types of medication that require extra caution during heatwaves.
Heart medication can restrict blood flow
Beta-blockers and diuretics, often prescribed for heart failure or high blood pressure, can make it harder for the body to release excess heat.
They reduce blood circulation in the skin and can also increase the risk of dehydration.
Also read: Why Your Legs Cramp Up at Night – and How to Finally Stop It
Diuretics can dry out the body
Diuretics, also known as water pills, increase fluid excretion through the kidneys.
This can lead to dehydration in hot weather because the body lacks enough fluid to sweat effectively and keep cool.
Some antidepressants reduce sweating
SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants can interfere with the body’s sweat function by affecting neurotransmitters like serotonin and noradrenaline.
If you sweat less, it becomes harder for your body to cool itself down.
Also read: This Simple Trick Can Transform Your Sleep in Just 24 Hours
Tricyclic antidepressants can increase heat sensitivity
Besides reducing sweating, tricyclic antidepressants can block acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in sweating.
They can also raise noradrenaline levels, which may lead to excessive sweating – increasing the risk of dehydration.
Antipsychotics disrupt the body’s heat alarm
Medication used for psychosis and bipolar disorders can make it harder for the body to notice when it’s overheating.
Antipsychotics block dopamine, which affects the hypothalamus – the brain region that regulates body temperature.
Also read: This Is Why You Should Never Wear a Pajamas Again
Antipsychotics can reduce sweating even more
Some antipsychotics also have anticholinergic effects, blocking acetylcholine and further reducing sweat production.
This makes it even harder for the body to release heat.
Stimulants raise body temperature
Stimulants like amphetamines, used to treat ADHD, can boost metabolism and increase the body’s heat production.
They also affect sweating, making it harder to cool down, especially during physical activity.
Also read: This Bite Is More Dangerous Than Mosquitoes and Wasps – Here’s How to Recognize It
Stimulants can mask fatigue
Stimulant medications often reduce the feeling of fatigue, which can lead people to push themselves too hard in the heat.
This can result in overheating or even heatstroke because the body’s warning signs are overlooked.
Insulin can act faster in heat
For people with diabetes, high temperatures can increase blood flow at the injection site, causing insulin to be absorbed more quickly.
This can lead to sudden drops in blood sugar, which may cause dizziness, sweating, or even unconsciousness.
Also read: Drop the Soda! This Tea Is Your New Health Booster
Improper storage can weaken medication
Not only insulin is affected by heat. Many medications, including inhalers and EpiPens, can lose effectiveness if stored too warm.
That’s why medicine should always be kept cool and protected from direct sunlight.
This article is based on information from Derstandard.at.