Hot weather can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature and maintain proper hydration. A pharmacist is warning that several commonly prescribed medications may require extra caution when temperatures rise, reports Mirror.
These medications do not necessarily make you hotter
According to the pharmacist, these medicines do not directly raise your body temperature. However, they can affect the body's ability to cope with heat, sweat properly, or maintain fluid balance.
Antipsychotic medications
Olanzapine, quetiapine and chlorpromazine may interfere with the body's temperature regulation, making it harder to cope with high temperatures.
Oxybutynin
Oxybutynin can reduce sweating, making it more difficult for the body to release excess heat.
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Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline can also reduce sweating, limiting one of the body's main cooling mechanisms.
Bisoprolol
Bisoprolol can slow the heart rate and reduce some of the body's normal cardiovascular responses to hot weather.
Lithium
Dehydration can increase lithium levels in the body, raising the risk of side effects and toxicity.
Sertraline
In some people, sertraline may affect both sweating and the body's fluid balance.
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Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate may increase heart rate, reduce appetite and make dehydration more likely during prolonged activity.
Furosemide
Furosemide is a diuretic that increases urine production and may contribute to dehydration, low blood pressure and dizziness.
Do not stop your medication on your own
The pharmacist stresses that you should never stop taking prescribed medication without first consulting your doctor, even during hot weather.
Know the warning signs
Headaches, weakness, heavy sweating, dizziness or feeling faint may be signs that your body is struggling to cope with the heat. If symptoms develop, move to a cool place and seek medical advice if needed.
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