A Gentle Reminder: Heat, Hydration, and Your Medication

Disclaimer: This information is for general awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The most important step you can take is to speak with your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medications and any concerns you have about heat safety.

It’s summer. Since May, it’s been warmer than I’m used to (I live in the Cotswolds, though I’m a Scottish gal through and through. This cartoon is accurate for my summers). In part, because I’m just not built for this weather, but I’ve always known my meds make it worse. Anyone that has experienced hot weather with antidepressants, antipsychotics, meds for ADHD, or even sometimes, antihistamines or antisickness meds will potentially knock your internal thermostat for a loop.

So, why does this happen? Some medications can:

• Reduce your ability to sweat. Sweating is your body’s primary cooling system. If you can’t sweat efficiently, your internal temperature can rise to dangerous levels.
• Affect the hypothalamus. This is the part of your brain that acts as your body’s thermostat, regulating your temperature. Some medications can disrupt its signals.
• Cause dehydration. Some meds increase thirst and urination, while others might cause a dry mouth, making it harder to stay on top of your fluid intake.

Common Medications to be Mindful of in the Heat

While not a complete list, here are some common types of medications that can make you more vulnerable to heat.

• Antidepressants:
  • Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) like Amitriptyline are well-known for affecting the body’s thermostat and reducing sweating.
  • SSRIs and SNRIs (like Sertraline, Citalopram, or Venlafaxine) can sometimes increase sweating, which, while a different problem, can still lead to faster dehydration if you’re not replenishing fluids.
• Antipsychotics: Medications like Quetiapine, Olanzapine, or Risperidone can significantly interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Mood Stabilisers: Lithium is particularly important to watch. Dehydration can cause lithium levels in your blood to become concentrated and rise to toxic levels. It’s vital to maintain consistent fluid intake.
• Stimulants for ADHD: Medications like Adderall (amphetamine salts) or Ritalin (methylphenidate) raise your core body temperature and heart rate, increasing your risk of dehydration and overheating during physical activity.
• Other common culprits can include diuretics (“water pills”), some blood pressure medications, and certain antihistamines.

Simple Steps to Care for Yourself

This isn’t about being scared; it’s about being prepared. Think of it as another form of self-care.

1. Hydrate Proactively. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Sip water steadily throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere. Eating water-rich foods like cucumber, melon, and strawberries also helps! 🍉
2. Listen to Your Body. The early signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, headache, unusual fatigue, and confusion. If you feel any of these, stop what you’re doing immediately. Get into a cool place, drink some water, and rest.
3. Dress for the Weather. Light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton or linen will help your body stay cool.
4. Plan Your Day. Avoid being out in the direct sun during the hottest part of the day (usually 11 am – 3 pm). If you’re exercising, do it in the early morning or evening.
5. Talk to Your Pharmacist. Your local pharmacist is a brilliant and accessible resource. You can ask them directly, “I’m taking [medication name], is there anything I should be aware of in the hot weather?” They can give you personalised advice.

Staying mindful of your medication and hydration is one of the most powerful self-care anchors you can have this summer. It keeps you safe, grounded, and well enough to enjoy the season on your own terms.

All advice and information offered on this site is offered as is, and you should discuss any treatments you undertake with your GP or other healthcare provider. Unless otherwise identified, our experiences are shared in good faith, but are anecdotal and do not constitue medical advice, but instead, a starting point for your own healing journey.
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